Puppies are the absolute cutest but they need to be trained. Using treats to train your puppy is an effective way to encourage good behavior and obedience. However, it’s important to use them correctly and in moderation. Here are some of the best ways to use treats to train your puppy:
Use small treats
When training your puppy, it’s important to use small treats that your puppy can consume quickly. This will allow you to reward your puppy without interrupting the flow of training.
Use a variety of treats
Dogs can get bored with the same treats, so it’s a good idea to use a variety of treats to keep your puppy interested and motivated.
Use high-value treats
Use high-value treats, such as small pieces of cheese or chicken, for more difficult commands or behaviors. These treats should be reserved for special occasions, so they remain a valuable reward.
Use treats sparingly
Using treats too frequently can lead to obesity and health problems. Use treats sparingly, and gradually reduce the amount of treats as your puppy becomes more proficient at performing the desired behavior.
Use treats to reinforce positive behavior
Use treats to reinforce positive behavior, such as sitting on command or coming when called. Reward your puppy immediately after the desired behavior, so your puppy associates the behavior with the reward.
Use treats to lure your puppy
Lure your puppy into performing the desired behavior by holding a treat in front of their nose. Gradually move the treat towards the desired position, such as sitting, until your puppy performs the behavior. Reward your puppy immediately with the treat.
Use treats to train your puppy to focus
Use treats to train your puppy to focus on you during training. Hold a treat in front of your puppy’s nose and slowly move it towards your face. When your puppy makes eye contact, reward them with the treat.
Use treats as a distraction
Use treats as a distraction to redirect your puppy’s attention away from unwanted behavior, such as chewing on furniture. Offer your puppy a toy or treat to redirect their attention to a more appropriate activity.
Use treats as a reward during play
Use treats as a reward during playtime to encourage your puppy to play appropriately. For example, reward your puppy with a treat when they bring the ball back to you during a game of fetch.
Use treats to build a bond with your puppy
Use treats to build a bond with your puppy. Offer treats during quiet moments, such as when your puppy is lying down or sitting calmly, to reinforce positive behavior and create a positive association with you.
Remember, training your puppy with treats is a fun and effective way to encourage good behavior and obedience. However, it’s important to use treats in moderation and to gradually reduce the number of treats as your puppy becomes more proficient at performing the desired behavior. With patience and consistency, your puppy will become a well-behaved and obedient companion.