The Weekly High Five 🐾

Here’s a question I ask every private training client:

“What’s your dog’s currency?”

Most people say “treats.” Some say “tennis ball.” A few say “praise.”

And they’re usually wrong.

Not because their dog doesn’t like those things. But because they’ve never actually tested what their dog values most.

So in Week 1 of private training, I have them run what I call The Food Audition.
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Here’s how it works:

You line up 5-7 different high-value rewards. Hot dogs. String cheese. Freeze-dried liver. Their kibble (for comparison). A favorite toy. Even just enthusiastic praise.

Then you test them, one at a time, in a low-distraction environment.

You’re looking for the reward that makes your dog’s eyes light up. The one they’d choose if given the option. The one they’ll work hardest for.

Because here’s the thing: if you’re using treats your dog finds “meh” and asking them to ignore a squirrel… you’re bringing a knife to a gunfight.

This is Rule #5: Pay Your Dog What They’re Worth.

And it’s not just about treats. It’s about understanding what YOUR specific dog actually values. Some dogs would rather chase a ball than eat steak. Some want your attention more than food. Some need the jackpot to be a 10-second play session.

The Food Audition tells you exactly what currency to use when building recall.

The other 4 rules tell you when and how to use it.

The 30-Day Recall Course includes the complete Food Audition Protocol (with a worksheet). Plus the other 4 rules. Daily emails, 10 minutes a day.

First 50 members: $97 instead of $147.

Get the Complete System + Food Audition Protocol → https://recall.down4paws.com​

You got this.

Pam,
CPDT-KA
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​P.S. Want to try a quick version on your own? Grab 3 different treats. Offer them one at a time. Watch your dog’s reaction. The one that makes them most excited? That’s your starting point.