Teaching the ‘Off!’ Command in Dog Training

If you want to teach your dog the command “Off!,” the best way is through play. Always ensure your pup drops whatever isn’t meant to be carried around or eaten by him/her.

When your four-legged friend stumbles across poison bait or something potentially hazardous, teaching the command “Off!” could save his life. Here’s how you can teach it to your pup.

Teaching the “Off!” command: Prep Work

Teaching your pelt-nose this command should begin when they’re still young; teaching adult dogs something new may prove more challenging. When training any new behavior with your canine companion, playing is the ideal way to educate.

So to train this command, grab one of your pup’s favorite toys to keep him occupied outside, as well as some treats that he finds more desirable than its toy counterpart. Begin playing with your pup generally until he associates giving the toy away with “off” being spoken and the subsequent reward that follows shortly afterwards.

Here’s how it all comes together smoothly and playfully.

Treats can provide the perfect way to distract your dog from his toy. If he’s currently carrying it around in his muzzle, grab the treats you brought from the bag – once your four-legged friend spots you, he may drop his toy and focus on enjoying his treats instead.

At exactly the right moment, drop the toy, say “Off!” and treat your four-legged friend enthusiastically when successful. Your four-legged pal should realize it is worth giving out his “booty” in response to that particular signal. Repeatedly saying “Off!” until he understands its meaning and drops whatever is in his mouth on command – then repeat this exercise until successful rewards are provided when appropriate.

How should I train the “Off!” command?

At first, several minutes per session should suffice – just try training your four-legged friend several times daily so they remain focused, enjoy learning and don’t lose interest. Gradually increase this training time but stop as soon as your pet shows any enthusiasm about obeying “Off!” It won’t work if his receptivity dwindles during practice sessions!

Summary: How Your Dog Learns the Command, “Off!” Here are a few essential guidelines on teaching your pup “Off!,” starting when he or she is still young: * Start training when your puppy is still a puppy; * Proceed with playfulness during sessions
* Your dog must find it rewarding when releasing his “prey” upon hearing “Off!”
* Multiple short training sessions are preferable over one long one.

“Off!” is an essential command to teach your dog when dealing with poison bait, as Daniel Strother of American K-9 Training School shows in this video. Daniel has also trained his four-legged friends to release anything harmful or hazardous upon hearing that word: