To Treat Or Not To Treat, That Is The Question
Watch this video overview for everything about treats. Detailing when, when not to, why, why not to, where, how, and even what type of treats to use. This video is one of hundreds of training videos in our Mastery University.
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4 Responses
Sylvie
This video about treats was extremely helpful! Thank you for sharing your knowledge on the subject!
Saralee Garber
I have an LBI mare, and treats have made a huge difference in our relationship. She is very polite about taking them, but I can always tell if she’s upset or confused about something, because she won’t take the treat. She occasionally asks for a treat, but anymore I notice that the ask usually comes after she has put forth a lot of effort, or she has done something very well. If she just goes through the motions without much effort, she usually doesn’t expect a treat. So, because she seems to have figured out somewhat when she actually deserves a treat, I do give her one at those times. I’ve found that if I show my horses that my hands are empty, they don’t ask for a treat until they see me rub my pocket or treat pouch, then they get interested again. I also have a cue word for when she gets a treat. I say, “cookie” and then she knows she gets a treat. That way, I can say, “Yes” or “good girl” as she does a task and she knows she’s on the right track and she keeps going, then when we stop, if it was cookie worthy, I use the cue and give her a treat. I also cue her when riding, by touching her side when she’s standing still and saying, “cookie” and she turns her head to the side I touch, and I get stretches both directions. It’s an interesting concept. Buck Brannaman frowns on anyone who gives treats, but, like you, I’ve found that “it depends”.
Anna Newman
Excellent information Don – especially the last bit!
Caroline Dyer
June 17, 2022
Hi- tx for this video. I’m using treats to help Snickers put the bit in his mouth. I have noticed he is starting to reach and grab at other times so this article was instructive for me to withhold treats for the latter behavior. PS I am in Victor so you give hourly instruction?