How to Teach a Basset Hound to Leave It
Teaching a Basset Hound to "leave it" is a rewarding challenge that addresses one of the breed's most persistent obstacles: scent-driven impulse control. Basset Hounds were bred to follow their noses, making them naturally drawn to food, fallen objects, and interesting smells—often ignoring recall commands in the process. With a trainability score of just 2/5, this breed requires patience, consistency, and high-value rewards to overcome their stubborn nature. However, their easygoing temperament and food motivation make positive reinforcement highly effective. This guide breaks down "leave it" training into manageable steps designed specifically for Basset Hounds, helping you build impulse control that protects your dog from hazards while respecting their scent-driven instincts.
Step-by-step
- 1
Start with a Closed Fist and Irresistible Rewards
Hold a treat in your closed fist and present it to your Basset. When they sniff or nudge but don't mouth it, immediately say 'leave it' and reward them with an even better treat from your other hand. Repeat 5–10 times daily in short sessions. This teaches the basic concept without overwhelming their scent drive.
- 2
Introduce the 'Leave It' Verbal Cue Consistently
Once your Basset reliably ignores the closed fist, say 'leave it' just before they make the right choice, then reward heavily. Basset Hounds respond well to food motivation, so use high-value treats like chicken or cheese. Consistency matters more than frequency—practice 3–4 times daily for 2–3 weeks.
- 3
Progress to Treats on the Floor or Low Surfaces
Place low-value treats on the ground and cover them with your shoe or hand. Say 'leave it' and reward with higher-value treats from your hand when ignored. Gradually uncover the floor treat, always ready to prevent sniffing. This mimics real-world scenarios where hazards are harder to control.
- 4
Practice During Low-Energy Times
Basset Hounds have minimal energy (2/5), so train after their 45-minute daily exercise when they're calmer and more receptive. Avoid training during high-excitement moments or when food-focused; success builds on success, and a tired Basset is more likely to comply.
- 5
Generalize the Command Across Environments
Once solid indoors, practice 'leave it' on walks, in the yard, and near dropped items. Basset Hounds are easily distracted by scents outdoors, so start in quiet areas and progress gradually. Keep sessions short and reward heavily for compliance in these harder contexts.
- 6
Reinforce 'Leave It' Alongside Recall Training
Since Basset Hounds struggle with recall when scent-distracted, practice 'leave it' before 'come.' This creates a safety chain: your dog learns to resist the temptation first, making the recall command more reliable. Use your Basset's stubborn nature as a strength—once they learn the rule, they'll stick to it.
Pro tips
- Use ultra-high-value treats (chicken, cheese, hot dog pieces) to compete with Basset Hound nose power—their scent drive is strong, so your rewards must be stronger.
- Train after the dog's 45-minute daily exercise window when their low energy makes them calmer and more focused on food rewards rather than scent-hunting.
- Basset Hounds are stubborn but rule-followers: once they truly learn 'leave it,' they'll apply it consistently. Invest the patience upfront—the payoff is worth it for safety.
Frequently asked questions
My Basset Hound ignores 'leave it' outdoors even though he's perfect indoors. Why?+
Scent distraction overwhelms Basset Hounds outdoors, especially if they're following their nose. Outdoor temptations (squirrel tracks, food scraps) are far more rewarding than your treats. Start outdoor practice in boring, controlled spaces with easier distractions, then gradually increase difficulty. Expect slower progress outdoors—this is normal for the breed.
How long before my Basset Hound is reliably 'leave it' trained?+
With consistent daily practice (3–4 short sessions), most Basset Hounds grasp the basic behavior in 3–4 weeks. However, because of their low trainability (2/5) and stubbornness, real-world reliability—especially outdoors—takes 2–3 months of reinforcement. Maintenance training is essential; they may regress if practice stops.
What if my Basset ate something dangerous before I could say 'leave it'?+
This is a common concern with scent-driven breeds. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect toxicity. To prevent future incidents, manage your environment: keep hazards out of reach, pick up dropped food quickly, and always supervise outdoor time. 'Leave it' is a safety tool, not a guarantee, especially with Basset Hounds' determined noses.
Should I use punishment if my Basset Hound grabs a forbidden item?+
No. Basset Hounds are stubborn but also sensitive to harsh corrections, which can damage your training progress. Instead, redirect to 'leave it' or 'come,' then reward heavily when they comply. Positive reinforcement works far better for this easygoing breed and maintains your trusting bond.