No, using treats in training isn’t bribery — it’s a form of positive reinforcement. You’re rewarding your dog after they do something you want, which helps them learn to repeat that behavior. Bribery would mean showing the treat before they obey to coax them into it.
The definition of “reinforcement” is that the consequence of the behavior makes it more likely that the behavior will happen again. If your dog gets a treat for lying down quietly while you are eating dinner, that will make it more likely that your dog will repeat that behavior in the future. Compare with a human example on the job – your great job on that project resulted in a nice bonus and an invitation to work on more important projects. This wonderful consequence of your hard work means that you are more likely to enthusiastically continue to do great work on future projects.

Treats in training should be used as a tool to increase behavior that you want more often from your dog. Understanding dog behavior better can help you decrease any unwanted behavior by meeting your dog’s needs and creating alternatives. When used correctly, treats are a powerful way to build good habits and a strong bond with your dog.

Generally, retractable leashes aren’t recommended for training or daily walks. They can teach dogs to pull, reduce your control in busy areas, and even cause injuries to both dogs and handlers. In addition, retractable leashes may decrease your dog’s motivation to listen and engage with you, making it more difficult to get or keep your dog’s attention outside. A dog that is less engaged with his or her person outside may result in unwanted leash behavior like barking at other dogs or chasing wildlife critters like bunnies or squirrels.

A standard 6- foot leash gives you better control and helps reinforce good walking habits. I prefer a flat nylon or leather leash that is comfortable on your hands. Retractable leashes might be okay in open, safe areas after your dog has solid leash skills. That said, there are much better tools to use that are more comfortable for both the human and dog than a retractable leash in these kinds of situations.

No, using treats in training isn’t bribery — it’s a form of positive reinforcement. You’re rewarding your dog after they do something you want, which helps them learn to repeat that behavior. Bribery would mean showing the treat before they obey to coax them into it.
The definition of “reinforcement” is that the consequence of the behavior makes it more likely that the behavior will happen again. If your dog gets a treat for lying down quietly while you are eating dinner, that will make it more likely that your dog will repeat that behavior in the future. Compare with a human example on the job – your great job on that project resulted in a nice bonus and an invitation to work on more important projects. This wonderful consequence of your hard work means that you are more likely to enthusiastically continue to do great work on future projects.

Treats in training should be used as a tool to increase behavior that you want more often from your dog. Understanding dog behavior better can help you decrease any unwanted behavior by meeting your dog’s needs and creating alternatives. When used correctly, treats are a powerful way to build good habits and a strong bond with your dog.

Generally, retractable leashes aren’t recommended for training or daily walks. They can teach dogs to pull, reduce your control in busy areas, and even cause injuries to both dogs and handlers. In addition, retractable leashes may decrease your dog’s motivation to listen and engage with you, making it more difficult to get or keep your dog’s attention outside. A dog that is less engaged with his or her person outside may result in unwanted leash behavior like barking at other dogs or chasing wildlife critters like bunnies or squirrels.

A standard 6- foot leash gives you better control and helps reinforce good walking habits. I prefer a flat nylon or leather leash that is comfortable on your hands. Retractable leashes might be okay in open, safe areas after your dog has solid leash skills. That said, there are much better tools to use that are more comfortable for both the human and dog than a retractable leash in these kinds of situations.