When training your dog, it's crucial to choose the proper motivator. Food is one of the most powerful tools for improving your dog’s focus and speeding up the learning process. However, not all treats are the same, and using the right type of food in the right way can significantly impact the effectiveness of your training sessions. Food is a great motivator and activates engagement with you.
Choosing the Right Treat for the Environment
The value of the reward should match the level of distraction. For example, when I train my Labrador, Hollie, in a low-distraction environment, treats like kibble, carrot or apple work great. However, in more stimulating settings, like near water, these might not hold her motivation for training with me, and using kibble would be far too low-value.
It’s essential to adjust the reward based on the environmental distractions.
The type of food you use can affect how motivated your dog is, and even how you deliver it can increase or decrease their enthusiasm. If you want your dog to stay calm, deliver the treat calmly—by hand or by placing it near them. But if you’re encouraging energy and movement, toss the treat to them. Slowing down the delivery of treats can also help reduce excitement.
Medium vs. High-Value Treats
I recommend having a mix of medium and high-value food rewards. For a food-motivated dog, medium-value treats might be kibble mixed with cheese cubes. In a distracting environment, however, you’ll want something irresistible, like ham or chicken. Think of it as giving your dog a bite of a delicious sandwich, not something boring like a raw carrot—but also not an overly indulgent doughnut.
Treat Size and Texture
Ideally the treats you use are:
Small and appropriate for your dog’s size: For small dogs, the treat should be about half the size of an adult’s fingernail. For larger breeds, like a German Wirehaired Pointer, aim for the size of a little finger.
Mess-free and firm: Choose treats that won’t crumble and make a mess.
Easy to swallow: Ensure the texture allows your dog to swallow comfortably.
Ingredients: Avoid very salty/sweet treats. Homemade is best. Everything is in moderation.
Portion control: Remember to count any food used in training as part of the dog’s daily portion.
Homemade Treat Ideas
Follow the link for some tasty recipes:
Salmon
Dried sardines
Fresh sprats
Kibble soaked in salmon or sardine oil (refrigerate for 24 hours)
Cheese cubes
Chopped carrot or apple
Liver cake
Tuna cake
Remember: Count the treats towards your dog’s daily food intake to avoid overfeeding, and avoid excessively salty or sweet treats. Everything in moderation!
Giving Your Dog Options and Breaks During Training
A crucial aspect of training is allowing your dog the choice to participate. It’s important that your dog feels they have the option to opt in or take a break whenever they need to. This enhances cooperation and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. Your observation skills are important here as they will help you to identify when your dog is ready for a break.
Building breaks into your sessions is not only kind but also scientifically proven to improve learning. Just like humans, dogs need time to process new information. Breaks give their brain a chance to recharge, making them more likely to absorb what they’ve just learned. They also give you a moment to reflect on your progress and adjust your training plan if needed.
During a Break:
Set aside any training equipment.
Offer your dog water and a toilet break.
Give your dog time to sniff and relax.
Take a deep breath and assess your and your dog’s mental state.
Reflect on the session so far and adjust your plan if needed.
Only continue with your training if you feel positive, relaxed and motivated. Invite your dog back to the training space and reconnect to continue.
Setting Up for a Successful Training Session
Before you begin, preparation is key. Here’s how to set yourself and your dog up for success:
Plan your session: Make sure you have enough time set aside.
Choose your environment: Pick a safe, comfortable space with minimal distractions or for advanced training manage the distractions.
Organise your equipment: Have everything you need ready, including treats or toys for rewards.
Have water available: Keep water on hand for both you and your dog.
Warming up and cooling down are essential for your training sessions. Use the warm up time to observe and assess your dog's mental and physical readiness for training, and for yourself that you are in the zone and not preoccupied with other thoughts rushing around in your head.
Always finish your training session on a positive with a game you both enjoy.
By using food rewards thoughtfully, allowing breaks, and setting up each session for success, you’ll foster a positive, productive training environment. Your dog will not only learn faster but will also enjoy the process—making training a rewarding experience for both of you.
Comentarios