Reward issues

[JeanetteApodaca]

My dog isn't motivated by food or toy any suggestions on other rewards that may help? She is a mix but I do know she is a Chihuahua with some yorkie.

[Adrienne Farricelli]

Unless dogs are sick and not eating, most dogs are motivated by food. I would suggest from now on, having your dog work for her kibble rather than giving it out for "free" in her bowl. This will give you more or less 100 opportunuties to reward good behavior each day if you use all her daily portion. If you are using canned food, smear some on a finger to reward, just to get started. We often give dog food for granted and put it to waste when it can be put to great use intead. Many dogs get more and more interested in food when they start "working for it."

 

When my clients tell me their dogs aren't motivated by food, most likely they haven't experimented enough. I suggest going to a pet store and asking the clerk for the aisle where high-value training treats are located. Also, experimenting with people food may be worth a try as well. Whether dog food or treats or people food, I am sure you will find something that will work well for her.

Edited July 17, 2018 by Adrienne Farricelli