New research has revealed the treats that dogs can’t get enough of, the top brands of biscuits, and how pet-parents can most effectively use treats to train their dogs, ahead of International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day.

Analysts at kennel manufacturer Benchmark Kennels have surveyed dog owners to find their favourite treats, and talked to professional dog trainer Ali Smith and animal behaviourist Rachel Rodgers to reveal how best to train your dog using treats.

Key Findings

• Chicken is a dog’s favourite treat, with over 1 in 5 (20.33%) canines choosing this as their top snack.
• This is closely followed by hotdogs (15.67%) and cheese (15.33%).
• Benchmark Kennels compiled data from dog owners on which treats their dogs are most willing to recall and complete a command for.
• Benchmark Kennels spoke to professional dog trainer Ali Smith about training your puppy with treats, and clinical Animal Behaviourist Rachel Rodgers about the most effective treats for teaching different commands and training your dog in different environments.

Obedience training can be very trying, so to gain some insight into this part of puppy parenthood, Benchmark Kennels decided to reach out to the founder of Rebarkable and overall puppy expert, Ali Smith.

“Certain breeds are definitely easier to train, but there is no ‘disobedient’ breed. Just some who are bred to be independent and some who are bred to work closely with you.

“More biddable breeds include German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, toy poodles, border collies – essentially the breeds that are often deemed ‘smart’ breeds, and the more aloof or independent breeds like Huskies, Harriers, Shiba Inu, and a whole host of terriers are usually equally smart, it can just be more difficult to find their wavelength.”

Treats can provide the perfect reward and incentive for pups to follow commands. Creating this positive connection between food and obedience can speed up the training process massively.

However, some dogs are also more inclined to work for food than others, such as greedy labradors and pugs! These breeds happily see treats as their reward whereas working dogs such as spaniels, shepherds and collies might find a toy and a good game of tug and war more enticing. The key to the training process is finding what motivates your dog in particular.

The environment in which a dog is taught has a direct impact on their concentration levels and as a result, their ability to learn and absorb new tricks or habits. The Benchmark team contacted clinical Animal Behaviourist and fellow expert in all things dog, Rachel Rodgers, to expand on why certain treats are more effective in different environments.

“When teaching something new, or taking known tricks into an unfamiliar, distracting environment such as a park, we need to use higher value products such as meat-based treats. When in a familiar place like the home, lower value treats such as more traditional, shop-bought biscuits like milk and gravy bones can work well.”

While it may seem like treats are not compelling your dog like they should, it may be the case that what you are offering is simply not tempting enough to command your pooch’s attention, especially while they are in an interesting environment. It is a good idea to vary the treats that you give your pup to ensure that each remains interesting and does not lose its effect.

Barking at the doorbell, begging at the dinner table, jumping up at guests – we’ve all been there! However, specific dog treats can be used to fix these behavioural issues.

While these issues can be frustrating, it is essential to consider why a dog might be acting in such a way. After ruling out potential causes of pain or fear, it is worth considering that your pooch is oblivious to the fact that they are doing anything wrong.

Rachel Rodgers explains:

“We should never punish a badly behaved dog because in the majority of situations, the reason that the dog is ‘badly behaved’ is that they have not been taught the right thing to do in the first place.

“Teaching an incompatible behaviour to the problem behaviour can be a great way to tackle common issues.

“If a dog is jumping up, scatter food on the floor: their nose will be down sniffing out treats which is incompatible with being up near someone’s face and jumping! They are also getting rewarded for keeping their 4 paws on the floor which over time will become their new behaviour. Dog barks at the postman? Teach them to lie quietly on the bed where they will get a tasty chew.”

While small, soft treats are perfect for training and teaching tricks as canines can eat them quickly, longer lasting treats such as biscuits can be ideal when teaching pooches to be calm around visitors. Giving a long-lasting biscuit or chew on their bed when people arrive can also help dogs learn to settle and relax in a set area rather than jumping all over guests. It is all about choosing the right kind of treat depending on the situation or environment.

Although dogs only have about one-sixth of the number of taste buds that humans have, we can’t help but wonder if our pooches have snack preferences.

Ali Smith was able to shed some light on the subject. According to Ali, our furry friends tend to favour flavours of liver or whole proteins such as chicken and ham. However, it is worth keeping in mind that some treats are definitely healthier than others. Just like human food, the less processed, the better: recognisable ingredients are always a good sign!

The team at Benchmark Kennels decided to do some digging. We asked 300 dog owners for their pooches’ favourite snacks and compiled a comprehensive list of dogs’ favourite alternative treats.

Just as Ali Smith predicted, the dogs were chicken lovers, with over 1 in 5 of owners voting this popular poultry as the treat that their pooch gets most excited for. Dogs are not bothered about whether the chicken is freeze-dried, baked, or boiled, so don’t bother with any elaborate cooking, these pooches are easily pleased.

The second most popular snacks were hot dogs and sausages, without onion and garlic of course which are harmful for dogs. This quintessential American delicacy was suggested by almost 1 in 6 fur-parents. In fact, Rachel Rodgers recommends using this food as a training incentive. “Small pieces (no larger than your small finger nail) of hot dog or ham can be really good high value treats for training.” However, Rachel also warns that meat products with a high salt content are harmful for our doggos and should be avoided. To be safe, stick to reduced fat and salt hot dogs, with no garlic or onion powder flavouring.

Dogs favourite snacks, as chosen by 300 dogs

1 – Chicken (freeze-dried, baked, or boiled) – 61 (20.3%)

2 – Hot dog/sausage (no onion/garlic) – 47 (15.7%)

3 – Cheese – 46 (15.3%)

4 – Beef liver (freeze-dried, baked, or boiled) – 43 (14.3%)

5 – Kibble – 35 (11.7%)

6 – Salmon jerky (freeze dried fish or skin) – 26 (8.7%)

Joint 7 – Carrot – 21 (7%)

Joint 7 – Beef jerky (no additives/salt) – 21 (7%)

Joint 7 – Ice cubes – 21 (7%)

8 – Peanut butter (no Xylitol) – 20 (6.7%)

*The research totals 341 treats chosen – some dogs recalled equally effectively for multiple treats.

Although dogs are the biggest human food enthusiasts, it is best to be careful and research foods before offering them to pooches. Rachel Rodgers warns:

“There are certain human foods which would be toxic and dangerous to give to our dogs. Any foods containing chocolate, raisins, grapes etc. need to be avoided as this could have deadly consequences to the dog. Other human foods are ok to give dogs but in small quantities.”

Twenty eight years ago, Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 which includes Section 1, the prohibition of four types of dogs considered ‘dangerous’ due to their appearance, was introduced into UK legislation. As a result, thousands of dogs have lost their lives based on how they look rather than act.

As we mark the anniversary of the introduction of the law, animal welfare organisation, the RSPCA, are calling on the UK Government to review the Dangerous Dogs Act, while releasing a series of images in memory of five of the dogs who have lost their lives due to this unjust law, which judges dogs predominantly on their appearance.

Dr Samantha Gaines, an RSPCA dog welfare expert and lead author of the Breed Specific Legislation: A Dog’s Dinner report, said: “The law is letting down dogs who look a certain way, who have specific measurements, or who tick an unfortunate number of boxes on a list. This is unfair, unjust and wrong.

“The Dangerous Dogs Act was a knee-jerk piece of legislation, introduced in response to a series of high profile dog attacks. But in the 28 years since its inception, hospital admissions due to dog bites have continued to rise, tragic fatalities as a result of dog incidents have continued, and thousands of dogs have needlessly lost their lives.

“It’s high time the UK Government respond to the scientific research, follow in the footsteps of other nations around the world who have repealed BSL and do, not just what is right for dogs, but for public safety and ensure both are better protected.”

Breed specific legislation – or BSL – prohibits the owning, breeding, selling, advertising or rehoming of four types of dogs: Pit bull terrier, Japanese tosa, Fila Brasiliero and Dogo Argentino. All four types of dogs were traditionally bred for fighting but there is no robust scientific evidence to suggest that any pose greater risk of being aggressive or causing more damage should they bite.

In the UK, any dog suspected of being a prohibited type will be assessed by a police dog legislation officer and compared with a breed standard. Depending on how closely the dog matches the standard they could be identified as being of type. Their parentage and genetics will not be considered as part of the assessment. For some dogs, being identified as a prohibited type means living with lifelong restrictions but for others, the way they look is a death sentence.

In 2018, the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Efra) Select Committee launched an inquiry into the legislation and recommended that the Government urgently review the law, particularly around Section 1.

The legislation makes it illegal to rehome or give away any dogs that have been identified as a prohibited type which means it is illegal for the RSPCA to find new homes for these dogs even if they would otherwise be considered ideal for rehoming with a family. This means that legally we are forced to put them to sleep which is extremely distressing for our staff and volunteers who form close bonds with these dogs.

This week, the charity is profiling five dogs who were all euthanised due to BSL:

Diesel was rescued by the RSPCA in 2017 and staff loved his playful side. A staff member who cared for him said: “Diesel loved playing fetch.”

Cookie was taken in by the charity in 2018. She was described as “loving and playful” by those who looked after her.

Jasper and Jet were rescued in a dog fighting operation in 2016. RSPCA staff who rehabilitated them said: “Jasper loved a fuss and Jet’s favourite time of day was walkies.”

Rocky arrived in RSPCA care in 2018. Staff fell in love with him as he was described as the “friendliest dog on the block”.

Dr Gaines added: “Defra has commissioned research by Middlesex University and we’re awaiting the results. We hope that this will show once and for all that BSL has no scientific basis, is ineffective and needs urgent repeal.

“Breed or type is not a good predictor of risk. Whether a dog chooses to use aggression is extremely complex and depends on their breeding, rearing and early-life experiences.

“Unfortunately BSL can mislead people to believe that some breeds of dogs are safe when any dog has the potential to bite – and that’s why it’s so important that adults and children know how to interact safely with dogs and what warning signs to look out for that suggest a dog is uncomfortable. It’s also incredibly important that dog owners are responsible with their pets, keep them under control in public places and speak to a vet or clinical animal behaviourist if they show any concerning behaviour.

“BSL fails to protect public safety and seriously compromises dog welfare. We’re calling for the general public to help us stand up and speak up for these dogs.”

Two years ago the Burton family sold their house, packed up their belongings, bought a motorhome and have been travelling Europe ever since with their two dogs Ozwena who is a beagle and Uluru a fox red Labrador.

Their adventures were relayed through a three-part series in K9 Magazine and they have now written a book called ‘DUST’ that chronicles the journey that is told partly through Ozwena’s eyes.

Read on to find out what Ozwena has to say about travelling Europe with her parents.

What is it like for a dog travelling in a motorhome?

At first it was a little strange. Moving from a fairly large house to a small motorhome took a bit of adjusting. I have never enjoyed travelling in a car so I’ve been surprised as to how comfortable travelling in a motorhome is. We recently had a hire car and I still detest travelling this way so can only presume the additional size and space in the motorhome, along with slower driving speeds suits me.

My bed is different as it’s raised off the floor and is now the front seat of the van but I’m used to this now and this is where I call home. I always feel safe in the motorhome and the company from my sister Uluru makes it so much better.

You must have had quite a lot of preparation to do before your trip. Tell us about it.

I had to visit my local vet to get a pet passport that allowed me to travel in Europe. At my appointment, the vet gave me an examination that included checking I had a microchip and then scanning me to find my identification number which is now written on my passport. I also had to for me and of course one for Uluru my sister. I also have to wear a scalibor collar as to protect me from leishmaniasis which is a tropical and sub-tropical disease spread through sand flies that can be found in some parts of Europe. More importantly, this also covers me against ticks.

What did you take with you?

I took my doggy bag with me and packed my favourite toy, my lead and a blanket that I’ve had since I was a puppy. I also have a collar with my name and number stitched onto it which is important in case I run away which I tend to do quite frequently! Other things that I took are some tweezers in case I do get any ticks so that these can be easily removed. I also have medication for fleas that I have dabbed on my neck every few months. I got fleas once and it was an awful itching experience.

How did you manage with the differences in foods in Europe?

My favourite interest is eating and I’m not a fussy eater at all. I dine out on many delicacies and have tasted foods from all around Europe to include octopus, anchovies, polish stew, with my favourite being tapas. I get dried dog biscuits each morning and night (with a spoonful of tinned dog meat) and these are similar to the ones I used to get back home. Most supermarkets in Europe sell the same or similar brands so it’s not a problem.

Are there any dog laws in Europe?

There are frustrating dog laws in Spain where dogs are not allowed on any public transport which

In Italy, I’m allowed onto trains, buses and boats but only if I wear a muzzle, this can be embarrassing

If you are a dog in Norway then you have to stay on the lead from the 1 st April until the 20th August and this is to protect wildlife as many new animals are born at this time so fair enough really.

The other places I’ve visited have been very dog friendly.

Ozwena at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps

Tell me the best bits of travelling in a motorhome.

Being with my sister Uluru and my parents Paul and Emma 24/7 is the best thing about travelling. And my walks last much longer than they used to and I love having the freedom to go where I like and to explore the endless beaches and woods in Europe. I’m an active dog and as a beagles I like to sniff out places and have found endless scents that take me running and exploring for miles and miles.

Everyone travelling Europe seems to have a dog with them and this is partly due to the relaxing of quarantine laws which means us dogs can travel which is so much better than staying at home whilst my parents go off and have fun!

And you’ve wrote a book about your travels, tell us about this?

I’m a well travelled beagle and have covered over 25,000 kilometres and visited 19 countries. I’ve been as far North as the Arctic Circle and as far south as Morocco. You can read about what I get up to in my book where I was kidnapped in Spain, washed out to sea in Italy and fell from cliffs in Portugal. Travelling Europe really is the best thing that has ever happened to me after realising life is for living before turning to DUST.

What’s next?

We are leaving the UK again shortly and heading east to explore that part of Europe. We didn’t get that far the last time so it will be great to go and explore further afield. My parents have researched these countries and they seem to be dog friendly places but I will however let you know how I get on. You can read about my trip by visiting my blog: beagleburton.wordpress.com

TV presenter Declan Donnelly with a copy of DUST

If the Burton family adventures have inspired you, you can enter and win your very own copy of ‘DUST’ as told by Ozwena, comment below telling us why you would like to win a copy (keeping your email address hidden behind your username).

Two UK winners will be chosen at random.

Good luck!