Right Answer | Woof University, LLC

"Right Answer" Cue

Choose a cue that means "you got it right". "Yes" and "Nice" are good verbal cues, or you may use a clicker. The thumbs up sign is a good option for deaf dogs.

IMPORTANT: The cue that you choose must always be followed by a treat because it means "you earned a paycheck" and not "you may or may not have earned a paycheck". Every time you say the cue, your dog gets paid.

Have a dozen or so pea-sized treats on the counter and your dog on-leash. Give the cue. Then, reach for a treat and feed it to your dog. Repeat until the treats are gone.

Don't use "Good" or "Good Dog" as your "right answer" cue. because you won't be able to use it as praise instead of a treat. The right answer cue is a promise that they get a paycheck.

Do not say your dog's name or give them a command during this exercise.

With Treat Training alone, you must give the treat to your dog while they are in position. For example, to reward a sit with Treat Training alone, the dog has to get the treat while in a sit. If he stands up and THEN gets the treat, he was rewarded for standing - not sitting. To be fast enough, you may need to hold the treat which can result in your dog only working if he sees you holding a treat.

The "right answer" cue fixes those problems because you don't have to give the treat to the dog while they are in position. You only have to give the "right answer" cue while they are in position. Then, give them their paycheck. The treats stay in your bag until earned, so Fido doesn't become treat dependent.

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