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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAnd each dog\u2019s an individual so what motivates one dog might not motivate another. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But you know your dog. And you can try different ways to reward him and see what works the best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why Should You Try To Use Rewards Other Than Food?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For most healthy dogs, food is a very powerful motivator. So when you reward your dog with a treat after he sits, he will sit the next time, anticipating another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
By using rewards other than food, you<\/em> become more important to the dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In many of the rewards other than food that I discuss below, such as playing with your dog, you become a central part of his reward. You become fun!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n There are many reasons to phase treats out and to use other reinforcers sometimes. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention<\/a> estimated in 2022 that about 59 percent of dogs were overweight.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n That\u2019s a frightening estimate, as being overweight or obese can greatly affect the quality of your dog\u2019s life. And his life expectancy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s simple math: feeding too many treats or those with too many calories will lead to your pup being overweight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Luckily, there are many other ways to reward him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I know this sounds strange. But some dogs aren\u2019t as motivated by treats as others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Some breeds, like labs, pugs<\/a>, and beagles will usually inhale any treat presented. But some herding dogs, working dogs, and terriers may not be as food-driven.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTo Ensure that Your Dog Doesn\u2019t Become Overweight<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Your Dog May Not Be Food-Motivated\u2013or Be Motivated More in Alternate Ways<\/h3>\n\n\n\n