Is giving dogs food for training Bribery?

Sylvia Koczerzuk Koczerzuk Author

Feb 25, 2025 |

Is Treat Training Considered Bribery?

Many dog guardians wonder whether using treats in training is a form of bribery. At first glance, it may seem that way—after all, we’re offering food to encourage behaviour. However, true bribery involves showing a reward before an action is completed, creating a conditional agreement: “I’ll only do it if I see what I’m getting.” This can lead to a pattern where the dog refuses to respond unless the treat is visible, much like a person negotiating their salary before agreeing to take a job.

Reinforcement, Not Bribery

Positive reinforcement works on the principle of action = consequence. The dog performs the behaviour first, and the reward follows. In the early stages of training, treats are given frequently to establish clear communication and motivation. However, as the behaviour becomes consistent and starts to form a habit (muscle memory), the need for constant reinforcement diminishes. Over time, we can vary rewards—sometimes offering a treat, other times using praise, play, or life rewards (like access to a favourite activity). The key is maintaining motivation without creating a dependency on seeing the treat first.

The Hidden Benefit: Positive Emotions & Classical Conditioning

Beyond simply reinforcing behaviour, positive reinforcement also influences a dog’s emotional state, which is where classical conditioning comes in. Because rewards create positive associations, they help shape how a dog feels about training, their handler, and even the environment they’re learning in.

Each time a behaviour results in a reward, the experience is emotionally uplifting for the dog. Over time, training itself becomes enjoyable, and dogs begin to anticipate learning as a positive experience rather than something to be endured. This builds confidence, fosters a stronger relationship between dog and guardian, and helps create an overall optimistic learner.

For more complex or difficult behaviours, continuing to use reinforcement strengthens not only the behaviour but also the dog’s emotional resilience—helping them associate challenging tasks with good things happening rather than frustration or fear.

The Takeaway

Treat training is not bribery—it is a well-established scientific theory based on psychology to teach and reinforce behaviour while also building a dog’s emotional well-being. By using positive reinforcement, we’re not only creating reliable behaviour but also fostering a happier, more engaged, and enthusiastic learner.