Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Dogs

Now is the time to start dog training without treats — here’s how

By

Training your dog to be a well-behaved member of the family is one of the most important duties of being a good pet parent. Having a dog that responds well to your commands not only helps your dog be more sociable, but it can also keep him safe and protect your home from destructive habits an untrained dog can cause.

Positive reinforcement training often relies on small training treats as a reward during the training process; however, that doesn’t always work for every dog. Some simply aren’t food motivated. For those that are, there’s the tedious task of gradually weaning them from receiving treat rewards once the lessons have been learned.

Recommended Videos

That prompts the question: Is dog training without treats possible? Yes, and here’s how.

woman training golden retriever in the park
goodluz / Shutterstock

How to train your dog without treats

Use your attention strategically

It might seem counterintuitive that ignoring bad behavior can lead to a well-behaved dog, but it’s actually a good strategy, especially if you have a dog who craves your attention. Your dog responds as much to the energy you exude as he does to the commands you deliver, which means raising your voice or pushing him away can actually reinforce unwanted behavior.

For example, a dog who jumps on you (and your guests) may interpret the excitement in your voice when you tell him “no” and the action of pushing him away as an invitation to play instead of a rebuke. The next time he jumps, try calmly turning your back and folding your arms instead. Once he stops, reward his good behavior with your attention by telling him he’s a good boy. Pet him, but only if it doesn’t instigate another jumping episode.

Work it into playtime

If your dog has a favorite activity or toy, consider using it as a training tool. For example:

  • Use a game of fetch to work on basic commands such as “sit,” “down,” “stay,” and “come.” Reward each successful response with a toss or two. Don’t throw the ball if your dog doesn’t respond, or this tactic won’t work. Repeat this process several times as part of the game. Finish up by tossing a few balls without any expectation as a reward for a job well done.
  • Even your daily walking routine can be an opportunity to practice obedience. Show your dog the leash, then give him the command you want to work on (“sit,” for example). If he doesn’t comply, put the leash away and leave the room for a few minutes before you try again. Before long, he’ll understand that the sooner he responds to your command, the sooner he’ll be able to go outside.
man playing frisbee with golden retriever
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Attach it to his freedom

Independent breeds as well as those with a hunting instinct may respond well to rewards that allow them to engage in their favorite free-time activity.

For example:

  • If you regularly visit a dog park or hiking trail, spend a few minutes at the entrance to work on commands like “sit” and “stay.” If he doesn’t comply, take him back to the car for a few minutes before you try again.
  • Practice basic commands on your walks around the neighborhood. Ask your dog to sit politely before you head out the door. Practice “leave it’ and “look” commands just before you get to his favorite places to sniff on your route, then reward compliance with a few extra minutes without interruption. If he doesn’t comply, walk past the sniffing spot and try again before you reach the next one.

Reward with your touch

If your dog is a cuddle bunny at heart, spending time in your lap or receiving affection from you might be a better reward than food. You can use this to your advantage by initiating a short training or practice session before he curls up beside you on the couch.

For example, when he comes seeking your attention, use the opportunity to practice “sit” and “down” commands. This is also a good time to teach the “look” command by asking him to touch his nose to your finger or make eye contact when you give the word. Reward the successful exercise with his favorite cuddle-time activity or scratches to his favorite place. If he doesn’t follow your command, leave the room for a few minutes before you return to try again.

Remember, positive reinforcement is key to your success. So is patience. Your attitude plays a big part in this training process, too. If you become frustrated, take a break and try again when you are in a better mood. By staying calm and not rewarding bad behavior with verbal or physical attention, you will soon teach your dog that the easiest way to have fun with his human is to follow his or her direction.

Now is the time to start dog training — or practice learned commands — without treat rewards. As the bond between you strengthens, your dog will be happy to comply without the promise of the food you might be holding in your hand.

Editors’ Recommendations

Topics
Debbie Clason
Debbie Clason
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Debbie Clason's work has appeared in Family Life Magazine, Sports Illustrated, The Lutheran Witness, Massage Magazine…
How to stop your dogs from fighting without getting hurt
Tips when dogfights happen
Two dogs fighting

Dogs, like many animals, communicate primarily through body language, which includes anything from licking each other to growling and fighting. At first glance, dogfights may look like a reason to push the panic button, but, thankfully, the fight often stems from a solvable problem. Nevertheless, any dog who’s been involved in a physical altercation should be examined by a veterinarian, as injuries aren’t always obvious.
The cause for dogs fighting isn’t always obvious, either. When a new dog is being introduced to the home, though, it’s not difficult to understand why there might be some jealousy, territorial disputes, and lots (scratch that, tons) of getting to know one another.
Luckily, with some knowledge, patience, and love, you can help your dogs get along. Once you understand why there’s a problem and how to stop dogs from fighting (safely, of course), you’ll be better situated to keep your household safe when you bring home a second dog.

Why do dogs fight?

Read more
Can dogs smell stress? A new study reveals all
The results could have an impact on how we approach dog training
A pit bull under a table with carpet on floor

We'll never stop feeling amazed by how much dogs tune into humans. Because our species have evolved together over the course of thousands of years, we have a unique understanding of our pups and they get us, too. Science has often speculated that our stress might directly impact canines, and now we have receipts. So, can dogs smell stress? A group of researchers in the U.K. set out to get to the bottom of this question.
Can dogs smell stress?

A recent study confirms that dogs respond to human stress, and it can even change their behavior. The researchers recruited 18 dogs (a relatively small sample size) for the experiment and also human subjects. The people were unknown to the dogs and did not interact with them directly. Instead, they used sweat-soaked rags to give the esteemed pup scientists a whiff of stress or unstressed human. When they smelled stress, the dogs were more cautious and pessimistic overall (you can check out the exact details of the experiment in this article).

Read more
This is how to know when it’s time to put your beloved dog down
Consider using the Quality of Life Scale to make the right choice
A woman hugs and kisses her senior dog

Our pets stick with us through thick and thin — they greet us every day when we get home, sleep near us at night, and never mind when we have a bad day. In return, we owe them the best life we can give, which includes a peaceful passing. No one wants to think about their beloved dog dying, and yet, it's one of the few certainties in our lives.

Sadly, nature doesn't always step in, and sometimes we have to determine when our pup's time has come. In these instances, you might have to put down your sweet pet to end their suffering. When is the right time, though, and how do you know? Here's when to put a dog down.
When is it the right time to put down your dog?

Read more