If your dog is anything like mine, then she is very motivated by food. For most dog guardians, treats are a valuable tool in our training tool belts.
Treats are about more than satisfying our dog’s taste buds. They are powerful motivators that help us communicate with our pups.
Choosing the Right Treats
In the early stages of training, opt for small, single-ingredient treats made from wholesome nutrients. While some cheaper options are convenient, it’s important to prioritize your dog’s health and well-being. Over-processed treats packed with chemicals can be harmful in the long run, potentially increasing the risk of health issues like cancer.
Purchasing high-quality treats may seem like a splurge, but it’s a worthwhile investment in your dog’s health and happiness. Look for human-grade, all-natural options, such as these grass-fed beef treats, that provide a nutritious and delicious reward for your pup.
These treats are one of my most purchased items on Amazon. I’ve bought them over 70 times! So, it’s safe to say that my dog loves them. And I love giving them to her, knowing they are one of the healthiest treat options on the market.
Disclaimer: As an affiliate on Amazon and other sites, I earn commission from qualifying purchases from the links above. This in no way adds an additional charge to your purchase.
Exploring Homemade Options
Your kitchen may hold some hidden treasures that double as training treats for your pup. Blueberries, carrots, and frozen peas are just a few examples of dog-friendly snacks that pack a nutritional punch.
But be careful when offering human food to your dog, as some items can be toxic. Refer to this list of foods to avoid to ensure your pup’s safety.
Rationing Meals for Rewards
Here’s a pro tip: use your dog’s dinner as a training reward. If you feed your pup commercial dog food, individual pieces of kibble can serve as excellent treat alternatives. This saves you money and encourages your dog to work for his meals, providing mental stimulation and a great opportunity to learn new skills.
Transitioning from Treats to Other Rewards
While treats are excellent motivators, I like to gradually wean dogs off food rewards and transition to other forms of reinforcement: TTouches, affection, and praise. By mixing up which rewards you use during training, you can teach your dog to listen out of genuine desire. I don’t know about you, but that sounds way better to me than having a dog who only listens when I’m holding a treat!
Maintaining Moderation
Finally, remember that moderation is key when it comes to feeding your dog treats. While it’s tempting to shower your pup with goodies, especially when they’ve learned a new skill, weight gain can lead to serious health issues.
I like to focus on quality over quantity and reserve treats as occasional rewards. This makes them more special to my dog, too!
Treats are a valuable tool in your dog training toolkit, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. By choosing nutritious, high-quality treats, exploring homemade options, and gradually transitioning to other forms of reinforcement, you can unlock your dog’s full training potential. So go ahead, reward your pup for her hard work – she’s earned it!
Tom Mitchell
The 1 Minute Dog Trainer
