That post made me chuckle....Max has learned when treat time is.
When I would start dinner...in order not to have 3 dogs under my feet...I'd give them all a treat to occupy them. Ramsey has decided...it is treat time...when we come home from work...doesn't matter if I'm cooking or not...we're home from work. She wants that treat. If I don't get the treats....she will go to the cabinet where they are located....paw the door and then bark at me. REPEATEDLY. The boys don't do this, but they're looming around waiting...Ramsey does all the talking for them.
In the AM...when hubby gets up...all three were used to getting a treat from him. Ramsey, of course, would remind him as necessary.
After nail clipping...it's treat time. I usualy do Ramsey last...because she will drive you insane....I let you clip my nails...I want a treat!
Doesn't matter if mine had all eaten a 7 course meal....if I am eating...they would like some too. This I blame on hubby....who was guilty of sharing his food with them. That's been stopped, but they still "ask".
I don't think they are hungry nor are they bored at those times...they are eating because it tastes good.
The treats...they've just become accustomed to receiving treats at that time. Dogs are very routined based..
Because Reggie is having tummy issues...no one at my house is receiving ANY type of treat. The AM treat from hubby...has been replaced by breakfast. When the dogs and I come home from work....I distract Ramsey by going outside...that's work pretty well.
Until she remembers she didn't get her treat.
You could try substituting kibble or treats with a vegetable...string beans, carrots...or my all love frozen peas. At least those don't have the calories as kibble or treats.