The Secret Is in the Release
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Many new dog owners do a great job teaching the basics—sit, down, and place. But true obedience comes from something deeper: your dog’s attention. And the key to getting great attention is teaching a release word.
If your dog sits and then gets up to sniff, wander, or lie down on their own, you don’t have a reliable “sit.” This may not seem like a big deal in the house, but once you add outdoor distractions, it becomes a much bigger challenge. Teaching a release word sharpens everything. It helps your dog understand: when I put you in a command, you stay in that command until I release you.
I recommend using a short, fun word like “break!” Avoid using “okay” as it’s used constantly in everyday conversation, which will only confuse your dog.
Tips for Teaching a Release Word
Start without distractions.
Keep things simple at first so your dog can easily understand what “break” means.
Use mealtime to introduce it.
Have your dog sit while you place their food bowl down. If they get up before being released, gently guide them back into the sit (use a leash if needed). Then say “break!” and let them eat.
Add motion or encouragement.
If not using mealtime, you can release your dog by adding movement, pat them in a fun, upbeat way as you say “break!”
Don’t correct your dog for not breaking.
“Break” means they’re done working and can do whatever they want. There is no correction needed here.
Be consistent with your obedience commands.
Have your dog hold their sits, downs, and place. If they break before you release them, calmly put them back in position.
If your dog is not working, you do not need to release them.
If your dog naturally sits, lies down, or chooses to relax on their own, that is not a command you gave, so it does not require a release word. Only positions you ask for need a release.
Remember to release your dog when they are working.
Dogs can’t old positions forever. Make sure you always give them the break word to end the command.
Why This Is a Game-Changer
Once owners introduce a release word, they see improvements within days:
- More attentive dogs
- Longer holds without constant reinforcement
- Better focus around distractions
- Clearer communication
- Stronger, more reliable obedience
Teaching a release word brings clarity, structure, and teamwork into your training and it truly transforms your dog’s obedience!