Have you ever tried to teach a Goldendoodle to sit, stay, or roll over without a treat in your hand? It’s like trying to convince a toddler that broccoli is better than ice cream! But fear not, fellow Goldendoodle enthusiasts, for we have the golden ticket to your training woes – the best training treats for Goldendoodles. These tasty tidbits are the secret sauce to your pup’s obedience training, and we’re here to spill the beans (or should we say biscuits?).
Why Treats are Essential for Training Goldendoodles
Imagine you’re at work, and your boss asks you to stay late without the promise of overtime pay. You’d probably be less than thrilled, right? Well, our Goldendoodle friends feel the same way about working without rewards. Training treats are the overtime pay of the dog world, and boy, do Goldendoodles love their pay!
Positive reinforcement is the name of the game when it comes to training dogs. And what’s more positive than a delicious treat? It’s like getting a high-five, but tastier. Every time your Goldendoodle puppy performs a command correctly, they get a treat. This forms a positive association in their mind – ‘I sit, I get a treat. I stay, I get a treat. I don’t chew mom’s favorite shoes, I get a treat.’ It’s a win-win situation.
But not all treats are created equal. Just like you wouldn’t want to work overtime for a measly penny, your Goldendoodle puppy wouldn’t want to work for a bland, tasteless treat. That’s where our guide comes in handy.
What Makes a Good Training Treat?
Choosing the right training treat for your Goldendoodle puppy is like choosing the right kind of fuel for a sports car. You want something that will make them purr with delight and race toward success.
Firstly, size matters. Training treats should be small. You want your pup to eat it quickly and get back to training. Plus, you don’t want them to fill up on treats and skip dinner.
Secondly, the taste is paramount. The treat should be something your Goldendoodle puppy finds irresistible. Think of it as their favorite candy. But remember, just like candy, treats should be given in moderation.
Lastly, the nutritional value is key. The best training treats are healthy and contribute to your pup’s overall diet. Look for treats with high-quality ingredients, like real meat or vegetables, and avoid anything with artificial colors or flavors.
Now that we know what makes a good training treat, let’s dive into our top picks for Goldendoodle puppies.
Top 5 Best Training Treats for Goldendoodle Puppies
- The ‘Golden’ Standard. First up, we have Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Treats. These treats are perfect for training because they’re small, soft, and easy to chew. Crafted with high-quality, natural ingredients, such as real chicken, salmon, and peanut butter, and are free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- The ‘Doodle’ Delight. Next, we have Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats. These treats are made with real meat and are high in protein. They’re also free of chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, and soy, which are common allergens in dogs. They’re also oven-baked, giving them a crunchy texture that your Goldendoodle will love.
- The ‘Puppy’ Pleaser. Coming in at number three, we have Wellness Soft Puppy Bites. If you have a Goldendoodle puppy, these treats are a great option for training. They’re made with high-quality protein sources, such as lamb and salmon, and are formulated with DHA, which supports cognitive development in puppies. They’re also free of corn, soy, and artificial colors and flavors.
- The ‘Training’ Triumph. In fourth place, we have Merrick Power Bites. Packed with protein and made with real deboned meat, such as chicken, beef, or salmon. They’re also free of grains, soy, and artificial colors and flavors, making them a healthy option for your Goldendoodle. Plus, they come in a variety of flavors, such as Turducken, which adds some fun to training sessions.
- The ‘Canine’ Craving. Last but not least, we have Greenies Pill Pockets. These treats are a lifesaver if you need to give your Goldendoodle medication. It is designed to hold pills and capsules, making it easy to give your dog medication without the hassle of hiding it in food. Plus, they have natural ingredients, such as chicken and salmon, and are free of artificial preservatives.
What are the Best Training Treats for Puppies?
Choosing the best training treats for puppies can feel like a daunting task. With so many options on the market, how do you pick the right one? Well, fear not, for we have done the legwork for you. Our top pick is Blue Buffalo. These treats tick all the boxes – they’re small, tasty, and nutritious. Plus, they’re made with high-quality ingredients that support your Goldendoodle puppy’s growth and development. So next time you’re in the pet store, skip the treat aisle and head straight for Zukes or Blue Buffalo Wilderness! Your Goldendoodle puppy (and their tummy) will thank you!
What is the Best Food for a Mini Goldendoodle?
Training treats are great, but they’re just the icing on the cake. The main course, the steak and potatoes, the crème de la crème of your Goldendoodle’s diet is their regular food. So, what’s the best food for a mini Goldendoodle?
We recommend WOOF dog food from New Zealand. The food and treats consist of the highest quality ingredients including fine protein. Leia is very fussy and WOOF treats are a life-saver when training her. WOOF is full of high-quality protein for muscle development, grains for sustained energy, and fruits and veggies for a healthy immune system.
Remember, while training treats are a fantastic tool for teaching your Goldendoodle new tricks, they should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. The rest should come from a portion of balanced, nutritious dog food.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, folks! The ultimate guide to the best training treats for Goldendoodle puppies. From the ‘Golden’ Standard to the ‘Canine’ Craving, these treats are sure to make your Goldendoodle’s tail wag with joy.
But remember, training isn’t just about the treats. It’s about spending quality time with your furry friend, strengthening your bond, and teaching them the skills they need to be a well-behaved member of your family. So, grab a bag of Blue Buffalo or WOOF, and let the training fun begin!
And who knows? With these top-notch treats at your disposal, you might just have the next canine Einstein on your hands. Or at the very least, a Goldendoodle who doesn’t chew your favorite shoes. Happy training!
Head over to Rover and read about some of the best foods for your Goldendoodle!
And read our thoughts on training Goldendoodles who don’t respond to treats or toys.
