May 13 2008
Why Use Treats in Training?
For the most part, I use positive reinforcement when training my dog or advising others on dog training. This entails using treats as a reward when my dog behaves in an appropriate way. To me it seems like a simple and straightforward process which gives me the results I want. I’ve come to learn, however, that it isn’t so simple. Many people have a hard time embracing the use of treats in training. So I thought I would take a moment to explain why I use treats for training dogs.
One objection I often hear when I introduce the use of treats is, “My dog should want to please me. I shouldn’t have to bribe him to behave.” I understand the thinking, but I don’t agree. Behavior is not a measure of your dog’s respect or affection for you. Dogs have a different view of acceptable behavior than we do. Left to their own devices, dogs will pee on your carpet, hump visitors’ legs, and bark incessantly at the mailman. This doesn’t mean your dog is being disrespectful toward you. Your dog is simply exhibiting behaviors which come naturally and instinctively. Learning to do things that don’t come naturally (i.e. peeing only outside on a particular patch of grass) is hard work for your dog. Treats are his reward for a job well done.
I think of it in these terms. I have had several jobs I really enjoyed. I looked forward to getting to work each day. I loved what I was doing, and felt lucky to be able to do it. However, I also enjoyed getting a paycheck. Had my paycheck stopped coming, no matter how much I loved the job, I would have stopped showing up. The same is true for your dog. A treat isn’t a substitute for your affection and attention. Instead, a treat is used to ensure that your dog keeps showing up to do the work. Plus, it’s something everyone in the family can use to ensure consistency in your dog’s training.
