So Your Dog Doesn't Like Treats

Modern, science based training uses things that the dog likes to build associations and help shape behaviour via positive consequences. 
Often times, we will hear that some dogs “just aren’t motivated” or a certain dog doesn’t like treats. 

All behaviour is driven by a history of reinforcement, and if a dog is alive they are food driven.

But let’s look at why a dog might be hard to motivate with food!

1. The dog is overweight or has a health problem. I’m not hungry when I’m nauseous either. Pet obesity is an epidemic, and when food is always available or available in very large quantities it decreases in value. Rule out medical causes with your vet first!
2. The dog is stressed. Not eating is a big sign of stress and anxiety in dogs. Some dogs experience general anxiety, which isn’t rooted in one specific trigger. Others are fearful or overwhelmed  around people, other dogs or cars. We can teach dogs to feel more comfortable and safe, and improve their ability to eat. 
3. Food predicts scary things. If a dog was lured into a trap or scary situation with food, they can learn that taking treats is dangerous. Sometimes certain treats can become “poisoned” after a particularly scary event. 
4. We don’t have the right food. I can’t tell you how many times I would recommend grooming clients bring “high value treats” for their dog and they would bring milk bones. Every dog has their preferences but generally speaking, soft and smelly wins. Real meat or cheese is usually a safe bet, as is dehydrated tripe treats.
   
5. The game isn’t fun. Training shouldn’t be like math class, and if the learner is making multiple errors and struggling to earn the reinforcement, it’s not uncommon or unreasonable for them to not play along anymore. We want our dogs to enjoy learning, so we need to make sure they’re engaged in the process and able to be successful the whole time!
   
   

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