Like Tamar Gellar of The Loved Dog, I am a firm believer in giving treats to food motivated puppies. We start treats around 8 weeks of age. At this age, their little digestive systems cannot handle new foods so we offer individual pieces of their dry kibble. I might also try no more than 1 tsp of peanut butter in a kong or simply on a spoon. I like to teach puppies to walk on a leash by using the “carrot on a stick” routine but we use peanut butter on a long wooden spoon. Puppies will try to walk to lick the spoon. I offer a reward lick every few feet.
Around 10 weeks of age, we start offering Teeny Greenies. We will break it in half and allow them to have half in the morning and half at night. Greenies are great incentives to go in their crates! At this age, we also introduce cat kibble and use individual pieces for training rewards. Plain Cheerios work well, too. Many trainers will encourage you to buy training treats. I believe in small bites and low calories for treats.
As they mature, we will put more peanut butter into a Kong or similar toy. We also will give biscuits. We are fans of Three Dog Bakery treats that are sometimes available at Costco. When they are fully mature, we also will offer one lamb’s ear a day or even a deer antler. A friend of mine, calls this crack for dogs. Your dog will think you are the best thing in the world if you offer an antler! Use your judgement but never ever give rawhide. If you have a question about a treat’s safety, google it online or ask your vet. Always watch for recalls and observe your puppy as it enjoys its treat. These are keys to a Loved Dog.