Cookie Confusion: Helping Dogs with Treats!

We have all been known to call a dog's favorite delicasy from the cupboard, their "treats!" Or maybe we reward our dogs with "cookies!" I've even heard "wanna num-num?!" Just how meaningful are those cookies to our dogs?

Let's discuss for a moment what is important to us, so that we can begin to unravel what I like to call, "The Cookie Confusion." Humans love our delicasies too! It could be a cold beer on a summer day, maybe a quick Kit Kat on a lunch break, or possilby a nice meal out with a favorite person.

But, what about the rewards we love that aren't food related? A great movie? A boat ride? A good book? Looking at this will help dog-owners clear up the cookie confusion. Dogs have many more rewards than just "food" related gifts. How about going for a walk? A trip to a park? Swimming in a lake? Learning a new word or a cool trick!  

A reward may even be as simple as you tossing the ball! Next time you reach for the cookie jar in the dog treat cupboard, consider asking your dog to "sit" for the reward of a walk instead. You will be teaching your dog to earn what they receive from you, ensuring that your dog will listen even when the food treats are no where to be found, and believe me, your dog will love you for the walk and will view that walk as such a special "treat!"

If you have more questions, send them my way! Or, follow Wag 'N' Tails on facebook. We love local dogs and are looking forward to meeting more of your little "best friends!"