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Can I Train With Toys Instead Of Treats? A Complex Answer To A Simple Question

Written by: Molly Weinfurter
Molly Weinfurter is a writer for iHeartDogs, and she’s passionate about helping animals in need. She volunteers for Bailing Out Benji and a local dog rescue.Read more
| Published on September 12, 2023

Reviewed by: Amber LaRock

Reviewed by:

Amber LaRock

Amber LaRock is a writer and reviewer for iHD. She is a Licensed Vet Tech with 12 years of experience in the field, and she now creates informative content for pet parents.Read more

Many people wonder if they can use toys instead of treats for training. If dogs are picky eaters or need to lose weight, it might seem like the obvious solution. But the answer is much more complex than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no.’

You can use toys for training, but only in certain situations. Even if your dog loves toys more than treats, training with toys all the time can do more harm than good. When training your dog, it’s important to understand how different types of rewards may affect them. Any reward you use should be used with purpose.

Watch This Video to Find Out When to Use Toys vs. Treats:

Have you had questions like this while training your dog? If so, SpiritDog can help you feel more confident in your training to better set your dog up for success!

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