How to Use Dog Treats for More Than "Just Because"
How to Use Dog Treats for More Than "Just Because"
Let's be honest: we all give our dogs treats for no reason.
Because they look cute. Because they blinked at us. Because today is Tuesday.
It's fine to give your dog a treat on the spur of the moment, but if you plan ahead, they can be even more rewarding (and good for them!).
Here are five smart ways to use dog treats besides "just because." They can help with training, calm nerves, and more. Snappy Snacks can help with all of these things.
1. Training and reinforcement
🎓 Why it works: Dogs learn faster when they get a tasty, high-value treat right away.
The best way to train your dog to do things like "roll over," "sit," "stay," or "recall" is to give them the right treat. It keeps your attention high and your frustration low.
Pick:
Little pieces that can break
Flavours with a strong smell, like peanut butter
Low-fat choices for frequent rewards
Snappy Picks: Puppynut Butter is great for training sessions; Healthy Champs is easy to break into halves or quarters; and Naught But Nice is great for short, snappy commands.
Tip: When you're out walking, keep a treat pouch on hand to reward your dog for good leash behaviour.
2. Toys that make you think and puzzles
Why it works: Dogs need to move around and think at the same time.
Snuffle mats, treat-dispensing balls, and lick mats are all examples of enrichment toys that can help with boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviour.
✅ How to use:
Treats that crumble to hide in mats
Little pieces in puzzle toys
Put smearable things like mashed banana or peanut butter on lick mats and top them with a biscuit.
Tip: Put peanut butter on a mat with broken treats and freeze it. This will make a cool, long-lasting reward.
3. Calming and taking your mind off of things
😊 Why it works: Treats can help people focus and relax when they are in situations that make them anxious, like going to the vet, riding in a car, or watching fireworks.
✅ Pick:
Something tasty and familiar
Banana, oats, chia seeds, and ginger are all good for you and taste good.
Cut into small pieces to use later
Snappy Picks: Belly-Friendly Biscuits are made with calming, easy-to-digest ingredients.
Tip: Use treats to help train puppies who are scared of loud noises or are anxious.
4. Control Portions and Feed Slowly
⏱️ Why it works: Eating slowly helps your body digest food and keeps you from getting bloated, especially if you eat quickly.
Use treats to:
Helps dogs eat more slowly with puzzle bowls.
Give them different foods at mealtimes without making their stomachs hurt.
Chewing is good for your dog's mind, so keep it up.
Snappy Picks: Blueberry Bow-Wow Biscuits are bigger and take longer to chew. Sweet Lentail is for naturally slow snacking. Ginger Wag is a crumble that you can put on food to get picky eaters to eat it.
Tip: Add broken biscuits to their kibble for a sensory boost without adding more food.
5. Special Moments and Celebrations
🎉 Why it works: Dogs need special times too!
Giving your dog a special treat on their birthday, Gotcha Day, or just because they did a good job will make memories for both of you.
Check for:
Seasonal gifts or treats
Something that tastes or feels different
Shapes and packaging that look good on Instagram 😄
Last Thought
Treats aren't just for making your dog feel good; they can also be tools, motivators, comforters, and ways to connect with them.
We bake each biscuit by hand at Snappy Snacks, keeping in mind these special times, like when you want to make your best friend's birthday the best ever or help a scared dog feel safe.
Use your treats wisely and often. Because every dog needs more than just "because."
Stay smart. Keep it snappy. 🐾
Karen, Trevor, and Boa
Snappy Snacks
