How To Train Dog To Put Toys Away?

Dogs love toys, and they love to play with them. However, the downside is that they often leave them scattered all over the house, leaving you to clean up the mess. That’s where the power of training comes in – you can teach your furry friend to put their toys away!

Not only does this make your life easier, but it’s also a great way to bond with your dog and stimulate their minds. In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of training your dog to put their toys away, so you can enjoy a tidier home and a happier pup. Get ready to transform your dog into a clean-up wizard!

Training your dog to put toys away can be a fun and useful activity for both you and your furry friend. Start by teaching your dog the “drop it” command, then gradually introduce the concept of putting toys in a designated container. Use positive reinforcement and patience to encourage your dog to participate in this task. Remember to make it a positive experience for your dog!

How to Train Dog to Put Toys Away?

How to Train Your Dog to Put Toys Away?

Do you find yourself constantly picking up after your furry friend? Do you wish your dog could help tidy up their toys? Believe it or not, dogs can be trained to put their toys away! This not only makes cleaning up easier for you, but it also provides mental stimulation for your pup. Here are some tips on how to train your dog to put toys away.

Step 1: Teach “Take It” and “Drop It” Commands

The first step in training your dog to put toys away is to teach them the “take it” and “drop it” commands. Start by holding a toy out to your dog and saying “take it.” Once they have the toy in their mouth, say “drop it” and offer a treat. Repeat this process until your dog understands the commands.

Next, add a specific toy name to the command. For example, “take your ball” and “drop your ball.” Repeat this process with different toys until your dog understands the specific commands for each toy.

Step 2: Introduce the Toy Box

Once your dog understands the “take it” and “drop it” commands for specific toys, it’s time to introduce the toy box. Start by placing the toy box in a visible location and placing a favorite toy inside. Encourage your dog to take the toy out of the box using the “take it” command.

When your dog brings the toy back, use the “drop it” command and place the toy back in the toy box. Repeat this process until your dog understands that the toy belongs in the box.

Step 3: Practice, Practice, Practice

Consistency is key when training your dog to put toys away. Practice this routine regularly, gradually adding more toys to the box. As your dog becomes more comfortable with the routine, you can start to use the toy box as a storage location for all of their toys.

Step 4: Reward Your Dog

Positive reinforcement is an important part of training your dog to put toys away. Every time your dog successfully puts a toy away, offer praise and rewards, such as treats or extra playtime. This will motivate your dog to continue the behavior.

Step 5: Troubleshooting

If your dog is struggling with the “take it” and “drop it” commands, try using a treat as a lure to encourage them to pick up the toy. You can also try using a clicker to signal when your dog has successfully picked up or dropped a toy.

If your dog is still struggling, try breaking the training down into smaller steps. For example, start with just two toys and gradually add more as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Benefits of Training Your Dog to Put Toys Away

Training your dog to put toys away provides mental stimulation and helps to reinforce positive behaviors. It also makes cleaning up after your dog easier and can be a fun activity for both you and your furry friend.

Training Your Dog to Put Toys Away vs. Other Tricks

Training your dog to put toys away is a practical skill that can be used in everyday life. While other tricks, such as rolling over or playing dead, are fun and entertaining, they may not have as much practical use.

Conclusion

Training your dog to put toys away may take time and patience, but it’s a practical skill that can benefit both you and your furry friend. By following these steps and practicing regularly, you can teach your dog to help tidy up their toys and reinforce positive behaviors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Training your dog to put toys away is a great way to teach them responsibility and keep your home tidy. Below are some common questions and answers to help you with the process.

What are the benefits of training my dog to put toys away?

Training your dog to put toys away has several benefits. It helps them learn responsibility and independence, and it also keeps your home tidy. Additionally, it can improve your dog’s behavior and help them develop good habits.

When your dog knows where their toys belong, they are less likely to chew on or destroy things they shouldn’t. This can save you money on replacement items and keep your home looking its best.

What are some tips for starting the training process?

Before you start training your dog to put toys away, make sure they are already familiar with basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Next, choose a designated spot for your dog’s toys that is easily accessible for them.

Start by showing your dog a toy and saying “take it” or a similar command. After they pick up the toy, guide them to the toy bin and say “drop it” or another command to encourage them to put the toy away. Be sure to reward your dog with treats and praise when they successfully put a toy away.

What should I do if my dog doesn’t want to put their toys away?

If your dog isn’t interested in putting their toys away, try making the process more fun for them. Play a game of fetch or tug-of-war with a toy, and then encourage your dog to put it away afterwards.

You can also try using a different command or making the toy bin more appealing by adding treats or a favorite blanket. With patience and persistence, your dog will learn to enjoy putting their toys away.

How long does it take to train a dog to put toys away?

The time it takes to train a dog to put toys away varies depending on the dog’s age, breed, and personality. Some dogs may learn quickly and be able to put toys away within a few days, while others may take several weeks or months to master the skill.

Consistency and patience are key when training your dog. Stick to a routine and practice regularly, and your dog will eventually learn to put their toys away on command.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when training your dog to put toys away?

One common mistake is not being consistent with your commands. Use the same command every time you want your dog to put a toy away, and make sure everyone in the household is using the same command as well.

Another mistake is not rewarding your dog for successful attempts. Be sure to give your dog plenty of treats and praise when they put a toy away, and avoid punishing them for mistakes. With positive reinforcement and patience, your dog will learn to put their toys away in no time.

How to train your dog to clean up their toys


In conclusion, teaching your dog to put toys away can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn this useful skill. Remember to start small, use clear commands, and reward your dog for their efforts.

Not only will this training improve your dog’s obedience, but it can also reduce clutter in your home and strengthen your bond with your pet. Encourage your family members to participate in the training process, so your dog learns to put toys away for everyone.

By following these tips and working with your dog regularly, you can enjoy a tidy home and a well-trained pup. So, grab some treats, get your dog excited about the training, and have fun teaching them to put their toys away!