Teaching to not retrieve?

[CraftHer]

Start the pup early with 'mine' objects and 'your' objects. "Mine" objects are forbidden.

Sounds like "mine" is the "Leave it FOREVER" command I've been wondering how to teach.

[Woodrow_Woodchuck]

Yes! "Mine" should be very strong with no exceptions.

I start by placing items on the coffee table and label them "Mine". The first was a 9" or so brass statue, no fun value to her, it is hard and not edible. Leave it where it CAN get knocked down during play. As soon as it is knocked over STOP the game! Re-label it as "Mine" gently place it back, point out that we have to be VERY, VERY CAREFUL of it, praise for being so good!!! Then continue playing. Slowly add more items, empty vitamin bottles, a plastic cup, metal canister... Anything that she will never be allowed to have. Repeat as things are knocked down.

At almost 3, Sunshine will now gently pick up and bring to me ANYTHING that falls on the floor that she is unsure of. If I hear or see it fall, I just say "Oh, that is mine" and it is ignored. Takes a lot of dedicated time, but well worth the end result.