To Treat or Not to Treat

Is it enough to praise your dog, rather than give a treat, in training situations?

No.

Case in point: your dog will not appreciate being called away from chasing a rabbit or rolling in something deliciously dead and smelly, in return for a hearty “Good girl!” and a scratch on the head.

This is a bit like your boss asking you to take a busy overtime shift when you’re already exhausted, and proudly presenting you with a pat on the back (and no bonus or extra pay!) as thanks. Odds are, you won’t be so quick to say yes next time… and neither will your dog.