Cooooooookies...

Finding which treats work to really motivate your dogs can be a bit hit and miss...something that seems really good to us may be only mildly interesting for them.  

Take for example Gourmet Tails:

I thought for sure these would be a winner with my guys so when they went on sale I bought several containers.  During our nightly crate games - I rewarded with these new delicious treats and was met with blank stares.

"Really?  This is it?  Come on...where is the good stuff?"

*sniff, sniff*

*eye contact*

*Sit*

"Maybe if we look cute enough she will give us the REAL treat!"

Pretty to humans does NOT equal loved by dogs!  At least not my guys.

Over the years I have found several types of store bought treats that they DO like however:

HANDS DOWN FAVORITE:  

Natural Balance Roll

Coming in closely behind:

Marinades by Sergeants - hard to find and expensive but they love them!

Processed meat products - Hot Dogs, Vienna Sausages, SPAM - cheap, easy to find, great choice in moderation

Pet Greens Chicken & Beef Jerky by Bell Rock Growers

Moderately priced and can be hard to find - best ordered online.  

You notice there isn't any dry crunchy treats in there - that's because most dogs want something smelly - the stinkier the better.  This isn't to say my guys wouldn't eat a Milkbone - they certainly would...but would they work for it the same as a piece of hot dog?  No way.  

That would be like someone giving you 25¢ to wash their car vs $25.  If you saw 25¢ you would probably pick it up but spend time doing something that was important to someone else when you could be doing something you enjoyed for it - not going to happen.

The same applies to training treats - don't be stingy with the good stuff - especially for difficult behaviors for them.  You won't always carry hot dogs, but if it keeps your reactive dog focused, your barker quiet or your arm in it's socket - does it matter?