Trading for treats is a great idea. You don't want your dog to keep repeating bad behavior, so try to change it as soon as you can. If commercial treats don't work, use a small piece of hot dog or cooked chicken. My dogs favorite treats are Zukes mini naturals in the chicken flavor. They are very small and softer than a dog biscuit which means you can offer them more often.
I agree that physical force is not the answer -- distract them instead.
Good luck
