Training Tip: Taking Treats Gently
It is common for dogs to get aggressive, anxious, or excited when it comes to getting treats. These behaviors may be taken the wrong way, but in all actuality, your dog is just excited to get their treat. The good thing is that there is a technique which will help teach your dog how to gently accept a treat. Please follow the steps below:
- Hold out a piece of kibble in a way that you can keep it if your dog bites down hard. Do so by placing the treat in the palm of your hand.
- If your dog acts aggressive while trying to get the treat, say “ouch” and put the treat on the table.
- Repeat steps 1 and 2 until your dog can obtain the treat in a gentle manner. Ensure that you are not completing this routine more than 5 times in a row.
- Begin to utilize additional methods of giving the treat (using your fingers instead of palm). Only complete this step if you are comfortable that your dog has progressed.
There are more ways in which you can teach your dog to take their treats gently. However, this simple method will get you started in the right direction!
