Quick Answer: Closed fist: hold a treat inside, let the dog work at it, wait for any disengagement (pulling back, looking up), then immediately reward from your OTHER hand. The fist treat is never given — this is critical. Once the pattern is reliable, add 'leave it' just before presenting the fist. Progress from fist to floor to real-world items gradually.
The Two-Hand Rule
The original treat is NEVER given — if the dog ever gets it by persisting, they learn persistence works. The reward always comes from the other hand — a different, often higher-value treat. This creates the association: ignoring something interesting produces something even better.
Progressive Steps
- Closed fist with kibble → reward from other hand
- Treat on floor under your foot → reward when they stop pawing
- Treat visible on floor, you standing nearby → reward for eye contact instead
- Real dropped food, 'leave it', praise and redirect
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