Treats? Mix it up a bit

Training tip: when giving treats, it's better if the dog is not sure exactly which treat is coming. Don't use the same stuff all the time. Make a "trail mix" of treats. My trail mix for E this afternoon consisted of 2 kinds of kibble, tiny bits of cheddar cheese, and tiny bits of Natural Balance (I cut the Natural Balance and the cheese into bits with a large chef's knife and keep it all in a plastic container. Each piece is about the size of a lentil. We're talkin' small! By keeping these treats all together, even the kibble absorbs some of the yummy flavor of the cheese and Natural Balance, giving it a higher value in the eyes of the dog.

In addition, it's best to "mix it up" when it comes to the way you deliver the treat. Sometimes, hand it directly to the dog. Sometimes toss it a few inches to the left. Sometimes toss it a few inches to the right. If your dog is likely to run after it, you can toss it low to the ground but far away, and let the dog chase after it. All of this makes it more interesting for the dog, and adds a variable that keeps them engaged in the game.

When the dog has accomplished something he's been struggling with, or when he does something that I really want him to notice, I give him a "jackpot"-- which could be a whole handful of treats. I save the jackpot to make a big point, because it makes a big impact on the dog.