How to Bond Better with Your Dog - Using Treats the Right Way

Dogs aren’t just pets, they’re family. Whether you're raising a new pup or deep in the groove with an older dog, a strong bond is what makes everything better. Happier walks. Calmer behaviour. Less stress - for both of you.

And one of the easiest ways to deepen that bond? Using treats strategically, not randomly. 👉 Explore Healthy Treats That Build Better Habits

Here’s how to do it right (plus some little behavioural tips along the way):

1. Reward the Good You Want More Of
🧠 Behaviour tip: Dogs repeat what gets rewarded. If they calmly sit while you put your shoes on, that’s a perfect time for a quick treat.

Use small treats throughout the day to reward your dog before they misbehave, when they check in on walks, choose to lie down, or resist barking at the postie. These are the quiet wins that strengthen your bond and build trust fast.

2. Taste Testing = Instant Engagement
🐾 Good to know: Dogs engage longer when they’re allowed to choose. Letting them “pick” favourites builds confidence and connection.

Next time you get new treats, turn it into a little tasting session. Offer 2-3 options side-by-side and see which one they go for first. Make it a game, watch their body language. You’ll learn what excites them, and they’ll love the attention.

3. Keep Training Short, Fun, and Just One Thing
🐕 Behaviour tip: Dogs learn best in 3–5minute bursts. Any longer and they zone out.

Pick one simple command, like “touch” or “down” and use treats to reward progress, not perfection. Always end on a win (even a small one) and keep it light. Dogs remember how they felt after a session. If it ends with success and a treat, they’ll be excited for next time.

4. Give Their Brain a Job When You’re Busy
💡 Good to know: Bored dogs don’t just nap. They invent jobs… like digging the couch or barking at dust.

Puzzle toys or chew challenges filled with natural treats keep their mind active and reduce frustration. This is especially helpful for young dogs or high-energy breeds that need a mental outlet, even if you’re just on a Zoom call nearby.

5. Build Rituals That Ground Them
🐾 Behaviour tip: Dogs thrive on consistency. Rituals make them feel secure, even during change or stress.

Choose a “treat time” every day: post-dinner, after walks, or when the family sits down. Use this moment to reconnect and reward calm, gentle behaviour. Your dog will start to anticipate this moment with tail-wagging joy and it becomes your thing.

Bonus: Choose Treats That Support Calm, Not Chaos
Too much sugar or weird fillers can make some dogs hyper, itchy, or upset in the belly. That’s why we keep it simple: natural, Aussie-made, low-allergy treats that actually help support good behaviour - not sabotage it.

👉 Explore Healthy Treats That Build Better Habits

Final thought:
The right treats at the right time do more than reward—they teach, soothe, connect, and communicate. Use them well, and you’ll have a dog who trusts you, listens to you, and loves spending time with you even more.