Feb 27

Tips for Using Food and Toys in Training

Training your dog isn’t just about commands—it’s about motivation. And what better way to motivate your pup than with delicious treats and engaging toys? Using food and toys strategically can make training more fun, effective, and rewarding for both you and your dog.

1) High-Value Treats: Finding What Works Best
Not all treats are created equal—especially in your dog’s eyes! For training, you want to use high-value treats—something tastier and more exciting than their regular kibble. Soft, smelly, and bite-sized treats work best because they’re easy to chew and keep your dog focused.

Some great options include:
✔ Broiled chicken or small pieces of cheese
✔ Freeze-dried liver or soft store-bought treats
✔ Oscar’s personal favorite: Blue Buffalo Nudges Jerky Bites!

Every dog has different preferences, so experiment to find what gets your pup the most excited to train!

2) Food Toys: Training and Enrichment in One
Food-dispensing toys are a fantastic way to reinforce training while keeping your dog mentally stimulated. Toys like Kongs, West Paw Toppls, or treat balls allow you to stuff them with peanut butter, canned food, or kibble, turning snack time into an interactive experience.

These toys can help with:
✔ Keeping your dog occupied when you need a break
✔ Encouraging independent problem-solving
✔ Slowing down fast eaters

Pro tip: Freeze the stuffed toy for a longer-lasting challenge!

3) Choosing Safe Toys for Training and Play
Beyond food toys, there are plenty of other options, like rope toys, plush toys, and chew bones. However, safety should always come first:

✔ Food toys are generally the safest because they’re designed for chewing and don’t break apart easily.
✔ Plush and rope toys can be great for playtime, but always supervise your dog—some dogs love to shred and swallow pieces, which can be dangerous.
✔ Hard bones and antlers can be tempting, but they can also crack your dog’s teeth. If you use them, monitor your dog closely.

Whenever you introduce a new toy, observe how your dog interacts with it to ensure it’s a good fit for their chewing style.

Final Thoughts
Food and toys aren’t just rewards; they’re tools that can make training more engaging and effective. By choosing the right treats and incorporating interactive toys, you’ll create a learning environment that’s fun and rewarding for your pup.