It amazes me how treat oriented dogs are.  They will preform any task for the reward.  Brody is no exception.  Though we haven’t taught him a host of tricks, his go-to stunt is sitting up on his hind legs and dropping his front paws.  Perhaps he believes he’s too cute to resist (and he’s right).

At our house treats fall into two categories, “treats” and “chew-chews.”  The mere mention of the word “chew-chew” evokes mayhem.  Brody and Jake will go nuts for 1/2 a chicken substitute chew (comparable to rawhide but better for their digestive system).  For Brody, its barking and a classic pose. Jake spins round and round, joining in the chorus of barks.

As a pet owner I use this love for treats to my advantage whenever possible.  If our dog gets loose outside, I mention the word “treats” and abracadabra he comes back.  When we are in a hurry to leave the house and Jake goes into hiding, “treats” brings him out. After a long day at work and I simply want to collapse on the couch I have been known to utter the word “chew-chew.”  Jake and Brody’s pleas for attention evaporate and order is restored to the universe.