How to Use Natural Treats in Dog Training: A Guide for Owners

How to Use Natural Treats in Dog Training: A Guide for Owners

Training your dog is one of the most rewarding parts of ownership. Whether you’re working on recall in the field, teaching basic obedience at home, or refining advanced skills, the right reward makes all the difference.

That’s where natural training treats come in. Unlike processed biscuits or sugary snacks, natural treats provide a healthy, high-value incentive that not only motivates your dog but also supports their wellbeing.

Here’s why natural treats are the best choice for training — and how to use them effectively in your daily routine.


Why Rewards Matter in Training

Dogs learn through positive reinforcement. When a behaviour is followed by something your dog finds rewarding — like a tasty treat — they’re more likely to repeat it. Consistency and timing are key, but the reward itself also plays a huge role.

If the treat is boring, your dog may lose focus. If it’s too big or unhealthy, it can quickly undo your hard work on training and diet. That’s why healthy, bite-sized, natural treats are the ideal solution.


The Benefits of Natural Training Treats

Not all treats are created equal. Here’s why more trainers and owners are turning to natural, single-ingredient options:

  • High-value motivation – Air-dried meats like duck, salmon, and venison have an irresistible flavour dogs love.
  • Healthy and functional – No fillers, grains, or artificial additives — just pure protein.
  • Hypoallergenic choices – Novel proteins such as rabbit or venison are gentle on sensitive stomachs.
  • Easy to use – Naturally dried slices or cubes are small, soft, and perfect for repetition during training sessions.

Natural treats keep your dog’s focus sharp without compromising their health.


Training Tips with Natural Treats

  1. Keep treats small – Training involves repetition, so use tiny pieces to avoid overfeeding.
  2. Use the right flavour for the task – High-value proteins like salmon or venison are perfect for recall, while everyday commands can use milder options like beef or duck.
  3. Reward immediately – Timing is everything; give the treat the moment your dog performs the desired behaviour.
  4. Mix it up – Rotate flavours to keep your dog engaged and avoid boredom.
  5. Pair with praise – Treats work best when combined with a cheerful “good dog!” and positive body language.

Natural Treats for Working Dogs

For active breeds like Labradors and Cocker Spaniels, training isn’t just about manners — it’s about building focus and stamina in the field. Using protein-rich, air-dried treats supports muscle health and provides slow-release energy, making them ideal for hardworking dogs.

Unlike processed biscuits, natural treats won’t weigh them down or upset sensitive stomachs during a busy training day.


The Sniff and Snack Difference

At Sniff and Snack, everything we do starts with our own dogs. Training working Labradors and Cocker Spaniels in the field means we need treats that are healthy, motivating, and reliable — day after day.

That’s why we’ve chosen to stock the Pure Training Treats range. While we didn’t create this product ourselves, we believe in it wholeheartedly because we’ve seen the difference it makes with our own dogs:

  • Some of our dogs are highly food-driven and need a strong, high-value reward to keep their focus.
  • Others aren’t naturally motivated by food, but will happily work for these treats.
  • Three of our dogs have sensitive digestion — yet they can all perform a full day in the field using these treats without any issues.

This is why we feel confident recommending them to you. They’re 100% meat, air-dried, grain-free, and gentle on the stomach — everything we look for when choosing rewards for our own dogs.

👉 Browse our Pure Training Treats collection today and see the difference they can make in your training sessions.

Back to blog