What’s Rewarding?

Why We Use Treats and Toys in Dog Training: More Than Just Rewards

As dog trainers, we talk a lot about positive reinforcement. It’s a big part of how we communicate with dogs and shape their behaviour in a way that’s clear, kind, and effective. But it’s not just about handing out treats, tossing toys for fun or access to life rewards. The rewards we choose—and how we use them—play a much deeper role in how dogs learn and how their social dynamics can shift.

Why Rewards Matter

At its core, positive reinforcement means giving your dog something they want when they do something we like, so they’re more likely to do it again. That “something” could be a piece of food, a favourite toy, or even praise or play. The key is that the dog gets something they value because they performed a certain behaviour. It makes the behaviour stronger and more likely to happen again.

But rewards aren’t one-size-fits-all. What motivates one dog might not interest another. Some dogs will do backflips for a bit of liver, while others would drop everything for a game of tug or offer a epic sit for access to play with their friends. That’s why it’s important to figure out what truly matters to your dog.

The Meaning Behind Treats and Toys

To us, a treat might just be a snack. But to a dog, it can be a powerful form of communication. It says, "You did something right. Keep doing that." It’s immediate, clear feedback. And because dogs live in the moment, that kind of clarity is essential for learning.

Toys can be just as powerful, sometimes even more so, especially for dogs with high prey or play drive. For these dogs, a tug toy or a ball isn’t just a plaything—it’s a jackpot. It triggers instincts and emotions that go beyond food, which can be incredibly motivating when used the right way.

How Rewards Shape Social Dynamics

Here’s where things get more interesting. In a multi-dog household or group setting, high-value rewards like treats or toys can actually shift social dynamics. If one dog consistently has access to the "best" stuff—whether it’s treats, toys, or attention—they may gain more status in the eyes of the other dogs. This isn’t about dominance in the old-school sense, but about how dogs read each other and adjust their behaviour based on who controls valuable resources.

This is why, as trainers and guardians, we have to be mindful. If we’re working with multiple dogs, we need to be aware of how rewards are handed out and whether one dog is starting to resource guard or push others out. It’s not just about fairness—it’s about preventing tension and keeping the group dynamic healthy.

Why Positive Reinforcement Works

So why do we use treats and toys in positive reinforcement training? Because it builds trust. It teaches dogs that their choices have power. Instead of being corrected for doing something wrong, they’re encouraged to figure out what’s right. That fosters confidence, resilience, and a better bond between the dog and the human.

And most importantly, it’s kind & ethical. Training this way respects the dog’s mind and body. It focuses on what we want the dog to do instead of punishing them for what we don’t.

Wrapping It Up

Whether it’s a piece of cheese or a game of fetch, the rewards we use in training are more than just bribes—they’re tools of communication. They help dogs understand us, reinforce lovely behaviours, and even shift their social standing among other dogs. When used thoughtfully, treats and toys can shape not just how a dog behaves, but how they feel—confident, safe, and understood.

And that’s the kind of relationship every dog deserves.