Dog Training: How to Teach Your Dog Not to Sniff Crotches

Dogs just naturally like to investigate interesting smells, whether that be a hole in the base of a tree, a small child's food-covered face, a garbage heap, another dog, or human crotches. However, you can teach your dog what to sniff and what to leave alone - which will be much appreciated by your visitors.

My 2-year-old black Lab was one of the worst offenders I've had in a long, long time. And we're still working on it. I call it the "uh-uh" command. I've also heard it called the "leave it" command. Choose a word or short phrase that's easy to remember and will not be confused by your dog for any other command. "Uh-uh" or leave it is meant to be a no-nonsense message to your dog to promptly change focus from whatever he's about to do or sniff to you. To my dogs, "uh-uh" basically means stop it, or behave yourself.

The simplest way to begin is with a treat firmly clenched in your fist. Any dog worth his keep will smell the treat within seconds. As soon as your dog puts his nose near your fist, you say, "uh-uh." Don't pull your fist away. Of course, the first few times your dog isn't going to understand and will persist in smelling your fist for the treat. When he does, repeat your command and bump your dog's nose with your closed fist. Again, don't pull away. Neither let any of the treat become exposed, or the dog may override your bump and grab the treat. In pretty short order, you should be able to read your dog's intentions and give the "uh-uh" command when temptation first strikes, but before he gets his nose where it doesn't belong.

During your initial training, as soon as your dog turns his head away, even slightly, lavish him with praise (not including the treat). When you're confident your dog understands and will comply with your command - this may take several tries over a few days - lay the treat on a table or chair or somewhere within your dog's reach. The second he notices or is tempted, give the "uh-uh" command. If he turns away, praise him lavishly. If he doesn't, give a little bump on the nose or a quick jerk on his collar. After a few sessions, most dogs will understand your command. However, if you don't practice it frequently over time, some dogs (like my Lab) will sometimes let their eager curiosity override what they've been taught - usually to the embarrassment of both you and your visitor.