Item retrieval

About this task

Dog picks up dropped items and delivers them to the handler on cue.

How it helps: Assists handlers who cannot bend, reach, or pick up objects due to physical disability.

Required foundation skills

Take it. Drop it. Retrieve to hand.

Training steps

1. Teach "take it" — dog takes an object from handler's hand
2. Teach "drop it" — dog releases object on cue
3. Combine: take it, bring to handler, drop it
4. Add the cue "get it" for picking up specific items
5. Practice with items on the floor
6. Practice with various items: keys, phone, wallet, pen
7. Teach dog to wait for handler to take the item
8. Do not allow dog to chew or damage items

Proofing criteria

Once your dog reliably performs this task at home, proof it in these environments and situations:

1. Retrieves keys from the floor on cue
2. Retrieves phone without damaging it
3. Retrieves various objects by name
4. Retrieves in public environments
5. Delivers to handler's hand or lap
6. Does not chew or damage retrieved items
7. Retrieves items in a store or restaurant