Dog Won't Stop Pulling on Walks? Try These High-Value Treats
Leash pulling is a common challenge many dog owners face, but with the right approach and the right treats, you can teach your dog to walk calmly on a leash. High-value treats, in particular, can be incredibly effective in capturing your dog’s attention and reinforcing positive behavior. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best high-value treats to use for leash training, backed by well-researched information, so you can turn your walks into enjoyable, controlled outings.
Why High-Value Treats Work for Leash Training
High-value treats are treats that are particularly enticing to your dog. These are usually more flavorful, aromatic, and special compared to your dog’s everyday kibble or training snacks. When you’re working on leash training, especially if your dog has developed a habit of pulling, you need something that will capture their attention and keep them focused on you rather than distractions like other dogs, people, or smells.
The goal is to use these treats to reinforce desirable behaviors, such as walking calmly without pulling. When your dog realizes that walking nicely on the leash earns them a delicious reward, they’ll be more likely to repeat the behavior.
1. Freeze-Dried Liver
One of the most highly recommended treats for leash training is freeze-dried liver, particularly beef or chicken liver. This treat is not only high in protein and nutrients but also incredibly appealing to most dogs due to its strong, meaty aroma. Its crumbly texture and concentrated flavor make it a favorite among pups, and its small size means you can offer frequent rewards without overfeeding.
Why it works: Freeze-dried liver is highly aromatic and flavorful, making it a great choice for motivating even the most distracted dogs. It’s perfect for quick rewards during training sessions, and because it’s nutrient-dense, you don’t need to give your dog a large quantity to make an impact.
Popular brands: Stewart, Primal Pet Foods, and Vital Essentials all offer high-quality freeze-dried liver treats.
2. Soft, High-Protein Treats
Soft treats are an excellent option when you need something that’s easy to chew and fast to consume. High-protein soft treats made from ingredients like chicken, turkey, or lamb are a great choice for dogs that need something extra to keep their focus during training.
Why it works: Soft treats are easy for dogs to eat quickly without breaking their focus. The high-protein content also provides a good source of energy, which is important during long training sessions.
Popular brands: Zuke’s Mini Naturals and Wellness Soft Puppy Bites are well-known options that offer a balance of flavor and nutrition. These treats are small, soft, and available in several flavors that most dogs find irresistible.
3. Cheese
Cheese is a highly effective high-value treat for many dogs, especially those that love dairy. Small, cubed pieces of cheese can be a game-changer in leash training. It’s quick to use, and many dogs find it incredibly motivating.
Why it works: Cheese is a high-fat, high-protein treat, and it’s soft enough for quick consumption. Its rich flavor can capture a dog’s attention, especially when they’re distracted by the environment around them. Plus, most dogs love it!
Popular types to use: Cheddar, mozzarella, or string cheese are all great options. Just be sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces to avoid overfeeding.
Important tip: If your dog has a sensitive stomach or is lactose intolerant, avoid cheese or opt for lactose-free varieties.
4. Freeze-Dried Chicken or Turkey
Similar to liver, freeze-dried chicken or turkey is another excellent high-value treat option for leash training. These treats are typically leaner than beef liver and still packed with flavor and protein. Their lightweight, crumbly texture also makes them easy to carry in your pocket during walks.
Why it works: Freeze-dried chicken or turkey offers a familiar, meaty flavor that dogs love, while still being easy to consume quickly. It’s a healthier alternative to processed treats and perfect for training.
Popular brands: Vital Essentials and Primal Pet Foods both offer freeze-dried chicken and turkey treats that are highly rated for their quality and flavor.
5. Peanut Butter (In Moderation)
Peanut butter is a classic high-value treat that many dogs absolutely adore. While it’s important to use peanut butter in moderation (due to its fat content), a small dollop on a toy or used as a reward can be a great motivator for leash training.
Why it works: The rich, creamy texture and salty flavor of peanut butter can keep your dog engaged and excited. It’s also versatile and can be smeared onto a treat-dispensing toy or used as a special reward.
Important tip: Always choose peanut butter that is free from xylitol, as this artificial sweetener is toxic to dogs.
Popular brands: Smucker’s Natural Peanut Butter and Jif Natural Peanut Butter are both commonly used in dog-friendly recipes.
6. Hot Dogs
If you're looking for something super easy to carry around and instantly motivating for your dog, hot dogs are a go-to option. Their strong, savory scent makes them irresistible, and they can be cut into small pieces for quick rewards.
Why it works: Hot dogs are highly flavorful and easy to slice into small bits. They're especially effective for training during walks because their scent is so strong, they’ll help keep your dog’s attention on you rather than the environment.
Important tip: Choose plain, unsalted hot dogs without added preservatives or seasonings. You can slice them up into small pieces for training.
Tips for Using High-Value Treats During Leash Training
Use them at the right time: High-value treats should be used as a reward for desirable behaviors, like walking calmly or responding to a command. Be sure to reward your dog immediately after they exhibit the behavior to make the connection clear.
Mix it up: To keep your dog engaged, alternate between different high-value treats. This variety helps prevent your dog from getting bored and ensures the rewards remain exciting.
Don’t overfeed: High-value treats are meant to be special rewards, not everyday snacks. Use them sparingly, and be mindful of your dog’s calorie intake to avoid weight gain.
Consistency is key: For leash training to be effective, you’ll need to consistently reward your dog for walking without pulling. Over time, your dog will learn that calm walking equals tasty rewards, and they’ll be more likely to repeat the behavior.
Leash training doesn’t have to be a struggle. By using high-value treats that your dog loves, you can encourage good behavior and help them learn to walk calmly on a leash. Whether you choose freeze-dried liver, soft treats, cheese, or peanut butter, the key is to find something that excites your dog and motivates them to stay focused. With the right treats and plenty of patience, you’ll soon have a well-behaved pup who enjoys walking by your side. Happy training!
