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Originally Posted by gemy  My dogs will take treats from strangers. Back when my big and wee dogs were pups I had to decide which way to go. Many folks with guard and protect dogs train them not to take treats. I decided not to go that way. I knew I did not want to officially train them in those practices. So that wasn't an issue. I train in diligently the drop and leave it commands for all the pups. This btw is a safety issue - if I drop over from heat exhaustion - or we are in a car accident my big dogs - will settle a bit when treats are offered. They also will obey basic commands from strangers. And that has saved Magic and me at least twice - when once he got out of the backyard cause sis left gate open and once when during a funeral when folks kept leaving doors open when entering and exiting. Two different neighbours saw him sightseeing off lead and called him back and he came...
Usually I am always with treats when I travel/walk with my dogs - and if someone wants to treat them I hand over the treat I have on hand. At vets offices once I know what the treat is I might allow the dog that treat.
I know the argument is slightly skewed when we look at toy dogs. But I do not feel the risk is very high where I live with dog napping. More risk from the idiots who place poisoned treats / water etc in parks where dogs frequent. |
You bring up an interesting counterpoint about when dogs are loose or lost, it is nice if they can be lured by treats. We did that with a Yorkie that was loose, scared, and had gotten under a car. Another family had dog treats in their car and was able to coax him out.