Teach Your Puppy Gentleness

When food appears, many dogs are so eager to grab it that they become oblivious to your existence.

With this simple routine, you teach your pup that treats do not fall from the sky to be snatched up the instant he sees one.

Rather, treats come from the leader's hand, which should be "treated" (pun intended!) with respect.

1. With your puppy in front of you – doesn't matter whether he's sitting or standing – hold a treat in front of his mouth. Grasp it between your thumb and index finger.

   Don't hold it too high, else he'll jump for it, which is not the calm behavior you're trying to teach.

2. Say, "EEEE-zee." Draw it out as a long cautionary word. If he tries to snatch at it, say, "AH-Ah" and either (a) pull it back or (b) leave your han where it is but twist/rotate it so he only sees the back of your hand and can't see or reach the treat. Caution again, "EEEE-zee" and give him another chance to be polite.
3. You might see his facial expression change when he realizes that he can't get the treat when he grabs with his whole mouth. He will probably try something else, such as reaching out carefully and taking the treat gently, using mostly his front teeth.
4. Only release the treat when he takes it gently. Add a single reassuring "Goooood" as he takes it nicely.

This gentleness routine helps your puppy pay closer attention to your existence and treat you with thoughtful respect.

Also, "Easy" is a word you can use in other circumstances. I use it as a control word  that cautions a pup to be calmer and gentler. For example, I use it when I introduce a pup to something that he must be careful with (like a new kitten) so that he doesn't get excitable or engage in rough play.