06/11/2026
Teaching a puppy to “pick it up” is one of my favorite skills because it can eventually turn into helping around the house by picking up toys, socks, leashes, and more!
This method works best with puppies that naturally enjoy playing fetch, (but you can teach it to all dogs using a more complex method 😉.)
Here’s how we teach it:
1️⃣ Start by teaching a simple fetch. Toss the item and encourage your puppy to bring it back to you.
2️⃣ Once your puppy is happily fetching, begin adding the cue “PICK IT UP” as they go to retrieve the item.
3️⃣ Next, ask your puppy to sit and wait while you toss the item. Release them and say “PICK IT UP” as they go to get it.
4️⃣ When they’re successful with that, have your puppy sit and wait while you place the item on the ground a short distance away, instead of throwing it. Then release them to “PICK IT UP.”
5️⃣ Finally, increase the challenge. Place the item on the ground farther away from both you and your puppy while your puppy sits and waits. Walk back to your puppy, then release them to go “PUCK IT UP.”
By breaking the skill into small steps, your puppy learns not only how to retrieve an item, but also patience, impulse control, and the ability to work independently.
What would you teach your dog to pick up first?
