There are many reasons why we give our pooches treats. Sometimes, owners use them to reinforce desired behaviors. Other times, owners provide them in order to help their canines learn a desired response to a new command. Still other times, treats might be used simply as a way to express affection for our four-legged companions.

It's important to realize the right treats can prove instrumental in motivating a specific behavioral response from your dog. Moreover, they'll help ensure your pooch remains engaged during your training sessions, and healthy over the long run. On the other hand, the wrong treats can have the opposite effect, especially when given in excess.

Below, we'll provide an overview of the different types of treats you can offer your canine. You'll discover that some work better than others, depending on the circumstances and your goals.

Crunchy Versus Soft Treats

Some are hard and crunchy; others are soft and pliable. Treats of both varieties are available in different flavors and sizes. Generally, smaller is better because they are less likely to become stuck in your dog's throat.

When you're training your pooch, it's a good idea to use softer treats. The hard and crunchy variety tends to break apart, which will distract your canine while he tries to clean up the pieces. Any distraction is an obstacle during training.

Treats That Taste Like People Food

There are many dog treats that are formulated to taste like foods normally eaten by people. For example, some taste like liver while others are reminiscent of seafood and various meats. While these morsels are effective for training purposes, a lot of owners mistakenly believe they are always preferred by canines. In reality, it depends on the dog. Some canines will enjoy them; some won't. The only way to know whether your pooch likes these types of treats is to offer them and note his reaction.

Good For Oral Health

Some dog treats are designed to promote good oral health. They require a lot of chewing, which helps to keep your pooch's teeth and gums clean. The problem is, if they're swallowed, the wrong size can cause choking or problems in your canine's GI tract.

If you're going to give him treats that are meant to promote dental health, make sure they are the right size for him. Then, avoid letting him chew them unsupervised.

Table Scraps And Other People Food

First, some types of table scraps can be beneficial to your canine. For example, small pieces of lean meats and seafood carry nutritional value. The danger is that there are plenty of foods that can make your dog sick. Grapes, chocolate, onions, and macadamia nuts are all potentially harmful to your pooch. Plus, veterinarians suggest the quickest path to canine obesity is through table scraps because there are far more calories contained in them than in treats.

The takeaway with table scraps is this: they can be good for your dog's health. However, owners can do plenty of harm if they're unaware regarding the types of foods their canines should avoid.

An Indispensable Training Tool

One of the most compelling reasons to provide your dog with treats is to influence his behavior in a way that conforms with your wishes. In fact, most professional trainers extol the benefits of using food as a positive reinforcement tool.

When you purchase treats for your pooch, make sure they have similar ingredients to those you'll find in commercial dog foods. Commercial brands are already formulated to deliver the vitamins and nutrients your canine needs. Don't make the common mistake of providing him with certain treats just because the flavors appeal to you. Your pooch is bound to have different tastes. Let him decide the flavors he enjoys.