Training dogs to obey commands can be a lifesaving practice. Owners that train dogs to "stay", or "sit", or come to them have a better chance of protecting their pets while out on the streets among cars and other dogs. Keeping dogs from running into the street is only one benefit of training- there are hundreds more. How do owners effectively train their dogs? You've heard of using treats to teach dogs tricks. While helpful, showing your pup treats might not be the best way to train them. If dogs can always see the treats they will only perform commands when treats are present. They are doing what they need to in order to get the reward, but they aren't learning how to perform the trick on command. When training with treats keep them hidden, switch the hand you feed them from, and wean dogs off treats for tricks they do well. That way they will learn to perform commands without treats. Treats can be a welcome surprise. There is nothing wrong with the reward, just make sure your puppy can perform the tricks without the treats.