My dog only obeys with treats. How do I train him without them?

Question

Hi. My pet doesn't listen to me at whenever I don't have a treat in my hand for him. Whenever I have something he likes to eat his obedience level is 100% but the moment he understandstbat I don't have anything he doesn't listen at all. What should I do? Pet's info: Dog | Saint Bernard | Male | unneutered | 4 months old | 21 lbs

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

I see that Tyson is still a puppy, only 4 months old :) Remember that he's just a baby - it's normal that he still needs lots of treats for training. If you want him to be able to listen when you don't have a treat, you first need to teach him that even if he doesn't see a treat in your hand, he will still get one - this means asking him to sit (or lie down, or whatever) with nothing in your hands, then praising and giving a treat from your pocket when he listens. Over time, he will learn that it's worth paying attention to you even if he doesn't see the treat beforehand. Eventually, you won't need to give a treat every time he does something - but don't rush this! He needs a long reward history of getting a treat when he listens to you before you can expect him to be reliable. Make a habit of carrying treats in your pocket all the time, so that you can always surprise him with a reward when he does what you ask. I would also highly recommend the book "Perfect Puppy in 7 Days" by Dr. Sophia Yin if you're having training issues with Tyson - it's a great resource for puppy training and behavior.

My dog only obeys with treats. How do I train him without them?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

Share