The importance of teaching a powerful release cue

Teaching your dog a release cue, sometimes referred to as “free” or “ok” is extremely valuable in helping your dog learn more, in a shorter period of time, while simultaneously making you and your dog’s learning experience substantially more enjoyable. Sometimes we get so laser focused on achieving the end goal we desire that we fail to to take some very important steps to actually getting there in the most optimal way. Giving your dog mental breaks by way of rest/relaxation or play, in the midst of training, paradoxically often moves you towards your goal in less time with far better results. Anytime we are working hard at something or learning something new, we need breaks to help recharge our batteries and dogs are no different. For dogs that do not have very high play drive or desire to chase a ball or stick, or for dogs that are on more sensitive side, getting them to release and feel free from training can be more challenging.

The key component to teaching your dog a release cue that reliable frees your dog up and allows them decompress from any excess stress built up in training is time. Taking longer and more frequent breaks in a training session is one the best ways to improve both the training experience and results for you and your dog. So next time you are outside in the yard or driveway training your dog, make sure to have a nice chair close by or your dogs favorite toy and make sure to prioritize teaching your dog the “free“ cue as much as anything else you are working on. You will see a big improvement in results, and your both you and your dog will have a much more enjoyable experience.