11. Relying too much on treats
“Too many people have the impression that raising a calm, peaceful, social, respectful, patient, obedient dog requires constantly feeding them treats,” Newman says.
Giving them too many treats not only takes a toll on their health but can actually backfire when it comes to training, teaching them to respond only to food and nothing else.
12. Not learning your dog’s love language
Anything your dog enjoys is a reward, Newman says. This includes praise, pets, belly rubs, going on a walk, sniffing, playing with toys, meeting friends, fetching a ball and so on. Your dog needs those rewards just as much as (or more than) the edible kind, he says.
13. Not following through on commands
Yelling “come” repeatedly as you chase your dog around the park is only teaching him that he gets attention when he misbehaves, Newman says. “To stop this trend, say commands only when you can make them happen,” he explains.
For example, only say “come” when you can crouch and be happy and lure with a treat, or even pull on a long leash. Eventually, your dog will learn to respond to the command alone.