I was just thinking the same thing the other day. I commented to hubby that I can say to Nikko, "mommy's going to take a bath now" and he won't react but the minute I say "Nikko YOU want a bath?" he goes crazy and does his little happy dance. He loves to take a bath because he gets lots of treats in the tub. He also knows cookie, outside, food, toy, bone, kissy and lots of other words. My favorite to use is "can". Whenever he gets too barky I say "Nikko, you want mommy to get the can?" and he shuts up right away. I have this can I shake with pennies and he absolutely hates it. The word "can" alone does the trick now!!
These little guys are way too smart!!