How to Train Dogs With Treat Bags
- 1). Fill your treat bag with small pieces of kibble. The kibble should be relatively soft and easy to chew, and most importantly, small. The dog must be able to eat the kibble in one bite. Waiting for it to chew a larger treat, or having pieces of the treat fall to the floor, will only confuse the dog and defeat your purpose. It is important the dog's attention is focused on you.
- 2). Attach your treat bag to your belt, or put it in your pocket. Treats should be easily accessible, so put the bag in a place where you can simply reach in and retrieve a treat. Ask your dog to perform a specific task, such as "sit." As soon as the dog's bottom touches the floor, give it a treat. It's very important that you are quick with the treat so that your dog associates the treat with the "sit." If the dog does not sit right away, wait for it to perform the task. If you are sure the dog knows what "sit" means, do not repeat the command; say it only one time. If the dog does not sit, say "oh no, you didn't sit" or something similar. Never yell at your dog. Make training a good experience.
- 3). Praise your dog lavishly as you give a treat from your bag. When the dog performs the task reliably, move on to the next task. To get the dog to lie down, move the treat toward the floor and say "down". Place the treat on the floor if necessary, but do not let go of it. When your dog assumes the "down" position, give the treat and say "good dog!" in a happy and excited voice.
- 4). Train for about 20 minutes two to three times a day. Keeping the treat bag handy will help you train during non-training times as well. For example, if you see your dog roll over on its own and you would like to teach it to roll over, give the treat and name the task, saying "roll over." This can be done throughout the day.
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