I client was told by a veterinarian to praise and then give treats to her puppy for eliminating outside. This makes no sense for several reasons.
- Mother dog doesn't use treats to train her puppies to go outside - why would you?
- Giving a puppy a treat for eliminating can cause several problems. The puppy will expect a treat every time and possibly feel duped when one is not forth-coming. Smart puppies eventually learn to eliminate just some of their waste material and save the rest for later (because they want a treat - instant gratification). Imagine their confusion when later on they are reprimanded for eliminating in the house and not given a treat reward?
- Direct eye contact with a puppy while its eliminating could be misconstrued - meaning, the puppy might think you are displeased; despite the fact your are offering it praise for a job well done. Mother dog doesn't stare at her puppy when its eliminating. Remember: mother dog's direct stare means "freeze!" or "your in trouble - now stop that!".
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