Socks, squeakers, poop bags, remote controls, chocolate, marijuana; the list is extensive, Things dogs have swallowed, chewed or needed to drop and didn't.
Drop it is such a universal command and seriously under valued. It's it's most primitive state, it's used to spit out whatever is in your mouth. Tricky to teach. Why would a dog give up something so important? They have no concept of the vet bill that potentially lies ahead.
But, what if, we teach drop it as a way to prevent the dogs from jumping on people at the door? Let's face it, if their head is down, their feet cannot come up! What about teaching a reactive dog to "drop it" and use kibble on a lawn adjacent to the sidewalk to occupy the dog, instead of having them react? Your kiddos belongings? The endless socks that don't live in drawers year round?
There are so many ways to use this command. It has the potential to remain fun and easy. It can work for you in many different scenarios.
So, how do we teach it? Well, around here, I use this method. I didn't create it, but I sure love it! It used food (love that), it doesn't use corrections (amazing), it's fun for the dog (you have my undivided attention now), it's versitial (I'm a lazy trainer). What is the world waiting for? Lets use it!
Here is the youtube link to the method. I promise it's quick and easy AND effective!
Drop It Go ahead! Click it!