Motivation is key when training your dog. Whether it is teaching him to behave or do tricks, rewards are indispensable tools for motivation. With the treats, he will be able to associate that performing the command can earn him his favorite things.
But make it worthwhile for him. Otherwise, he will not be interested. What he may consider as inadequate will not make him budge. Â To make the most of this reward-based dog training method, it is best to get to know your dog. Find out what makes him tick. This will go a long way in determining which rewards are suitable.
Ensure too that he is not distracted when training time comes around. Find a quiet place and set aside toys.
Here are some of the savory and fun stuff that you can use:
1. Food is a primal need which puts it on top of the list for most dogs.
When you give yummy treats, it will be beneficial to choose low-fat. Cut them into tidbits to make it easy to swallow, and so you can move on to the next lesson. When using food, choose those that he likes most. Â These can be store bought or homemade.
Dogs love chicken, ham, and cheese. Prepare and cut these up into bite sizes so as not to stuff him. It is the aroma of food that entices dogs. Let him smell the treat before starting out with the exercises so he knows what is in store.
It is better to time the exercise when he is a bit hungry so it becomes more inviting. Factor these treats into his diet so he does not gain excess weight. If necessary, reduce the number of his meals. But make sure he eats sufficiently.
2. Dogs love toys.
When training your dog, keep his prized ones out of sight. Give a toy one at a time so as not to confuse him. Â Â Â Keep his toys in a chest and choose from among them. His favorite toy is a prize well-earned for an exceptional performance.
3. Dogs like being praised.
Using a happy tone, praise him profusely, no matter how slight the progress. If it takes time, take it slow and easy. But be enthusiastic with praise.  This will encourage him to keep improving. If you have a hyperactive dog, modify your tone to keep him from getting overly excited. Remember not to talk too loud as most dogs have exceptional hearing.
4. Dogs like to play games.
After a good session, playing a game like fetch, bursting bubbles, or tugging will delight him.
5. Spending time together.
Immediately after a good performance,  have fun going on a walk, running through the sprinkler, and spending quality time together. Letting him off the leash to walk or run around also lets him know it was well earned.
6. Pet your dog.
He loves affection. Touch him where he enjoys it most- on his ear, his nape, or tummy.
Remember to reward your dog too when he is calm and well-mannered. Many dog lovers take this for granted. Good behavior calls for a valued reward to reinforce in your dog your appreciation for his being well-adjusted. Let him know it is worth being good. Compliment him by rewarding and praising him with a calm and quiet voice.
Have a good mix of the reward system- both special and regular treats for your dog. But remember not to overdo it so he does not lose interest. Reward him based on how he performed the lessons and the complexity of the action.
Reserve special treats for an impressive performance. Do not give these often so he values them more. Treats of lesser value can be given for easy lessons. For complicated, new tricks, he deserves something more.
This will encourage him to repeat the action. A good mix will make it spontaneous. The unpredictability of treats will pique his interest even more. Using a mix of the treats your dog loves will put him on a positive learning mode that will make the rapport stronger between you and your dog.
With these treats, a dog will like to learn continuously. So keep rewarding him for desired behavior and exemplary performances.
He will be used to learning by then and will be more open to learning more. The key is to keep his focus through rewards that motivate him. Â Remember timing is of the essence. Reward your dog soon after the good behavior or performance so he gets the message.
Whether you are training a pup or an older dog, it always pays to be patient and persistent. In the case of an old dog, set realistic goals and do consider his health issues. An older dog has more self-control. Help him focus on you and the lesson with the treats.
Just remember to keep having fun with your best friend through the process, learn from him, and move on to more tricks to stimulate him. Let him know it is not a chore.
Continuous learning, in this case, is not only for your dog but for you as well. Make this a pattern until your dog masters the lessons. It is not commonplace for a dog to learn tricks. But with the proper motivation, time, and patience, it can work out using this rewards-based training method.
It is not enough to just care for your dog and play with him. Make the most of the moment by teaching him how to behave and do tricks. The mental stimulation will serve him well. Â The exercise is time well spent and offers fun throughout the process. Â It will be an unforgettable and rewarding experience.
In time, you would have mastered the art of rewarding your dog, teaching him do neat tricks, and strengthening your relationship with your best friend.
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