Teach a “leave it” that works — Ethan’s way

The protocol

1. 1
   Step 1 — toss the object out of reach, hold the leash like a tree.

   Say “leave it” once or not at all. Wait for give-up or eye contact → “yes” + food. Never let your arm extend so they reach it.

2. 2
   Patience: 20 seconds to 2 minutes is normal.

   If it feels like a long time, you’re doing all the right things.

3. 3
   Step 2 — walk them into range and let them pick it up.

   If you don’t let them, they never learn what happens.

Lessons that fix this