7 Questions to Ask Before Giving Your Dog a Treat

Most of us keep a range of different treats and rewards for our dogs, to be used as a training tool or to be given to your dog now and then just because you love your dog, and your dog loves their treats! However, treats should be given sparingly and used wisely to maintain their value and avoid health issues.

In this article, we explore seven important questions you should ask yourself before giving your dog a treat. We'll help you ensure treats remain a special reward that supports your dog's health and behaviour.

1. Has your dog done something to merit a reward?

Treats are a powerful tool for positive reinforcement training. When used to reward compliance or good behaviour, they help your dog learn and repeat desired actions. Treats given without cause can dilute their value and risk your dog feeling entitled to them. Try to reserve treats mainly for training or motivating your dog to follow commands.

2. Has your dog had enough treats today?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories to avoid overfeeding and weight gain. Too many treats can also cause your dog to lose interest in proper meals. Calculate how many treats your dog can have each day and factor this into their overall diet.

3. Is the treat safe and suitable for your dog’s size and health?

Choose treats that are appropriately sized and textured for your dog’s body weight and chewing ability to reduce choking risks and dental damage. Some treats may not be suitable for dogs with specific health issues like obesity, diabetes, or dental problems. Always consult your vet if unsure.

4. Are you supervising your dog while they have a treat?

It’s important to watch your dog while they are eating a treat to prevent choking or swallowing large pieces whole. Supervision helps ensure the treat is enjoyed safely.

5. Could the treat cause any health or hygiene concerns?

Ensure treats are fresh, uncontaminated, and handled hygienically. Wash your hands after handling treats and keep your dog’s bowls clean to avoid bacterial contamination such as Salmonella.

6. Are you using high-value treats wisely?

Dogs usually have favourite treats they value highly. Use these sparingly for important rewards to keep your dog motivated. Use lower value treats for regular training so your dog doesn’t become bored or lose interest.

7. Is your dog well-mannered when receiving treats?

Always encourage your dog to sit calmly before receiving a treat. Avoid rewarding jumping, grabbing, or snapping behaviour by only giving treats when your dog is gentle and polite. This reinforces good behaviour and keeps interactions safe.

If your dog tries to snap at your fingers along with the treat, check out this guide on preventing treat snapping for practical tips.

Summary

Giving your dog treats is a great way to encourage good behaviour and build positive experiences. By asking these seven questions before offering a treat, you can ensure treats remain a valuable, healthy, and safe part of your dog's life. Always consult your vet for advice if unsure about treats or your dog’s specific dietary needs.