Table 3.5 examines the use of food and toys to motivate a dog to perform desired behaviors (by luring or prompting), or to positively reinforce such behaviors.
Specific food items and toys are more effective when used only as reinforcers instead of being freely available. To be used effectively as a lure or reward, food should be something the dog really wants. Depriving the dog of regular meals is neither necessary nor recommended. But the food may be more appealing if training is conducted before a meal, when the dog is hungry. A toy is any object that elicits play behavior from the dog, whether or not play involves the trainer.
These training tools may help the dog enjoy training and may enhance the relationship between dog and trainer. They may successfully attract a dog's attention when other stimuli have not. There is little to no risk of harm to the dog from the appropriate use of food or toys.
| Type of motivator or reinforcer | Limitations | Risks and warnings |
|---|---|---|
| Food | If food is used to prompt behavior, its use should be faded to prevent response from being food-dependent. Avoid foods that may cause or exacerbate a health problem, including overweight. Regular rations can be divided up and used in training if necessary. | Size and texture of food rewards should minimize chance the dog could choke on or inhale them. Using food with a dog who displays possessive aggression related to food should be done with caution. Training to change this behavior may be necessary before food can be used routinely in training. |
| Toys | Use of toys is more time-consuming than use of small food rewards. So fewer repetitions of behavior will be possible within a limited amount of time. If toy is used to prompt behavior, toy's use should be faded. | Toys should be safe for a dog - made of non-toxic materials, large enough so dog won't choke, no sharp edges, stuffing can't be inhaled, etc. Consider dog's usual treatment of toys. Toys should not be thrown at a dog to cause fear or pain. |
