Giving treats is one of the most natural ways to show affection and reinforce positive behavior in our pets. But not all treats are the same, and not every moment is the right time to offer them. Used wisely, treats are a valuable tool; used without control, they can become a health problem.
Moderation: the 10% rule
Snacks should never exceed 10% of daily calorie intake. This helps prevent two common risks:
Quality matters: less sugar, fewer chemicals
Not all treats are appropriate.
Avoid snacks with added sugars, artificial colors, or unnecessary preservatives.
Choose natural, high-quality options that are suitable for dogs or cats (e.g., dehydrated fish bites, small low-salt cheese cubes, or simple-ingredient snacks).
Be careful with improvised “homemade treats”: many human foods (chocolate, grapes, onions, xylitol, and more) are toxic to them.
The right time: reinforcement and bonding
Treats are more than just food: they are positive reinforcement and a resource for social enrichment.
During training, an immediate reward for good behavior helps consolidate learning.
However, in stressful situations, giving a treat during excessive excitement or immediately after unwanted behavior can create unwanted associations.
They are also an excellent tool for emotional bonding: offering a treat with eye contact and affection strengthens the human–animal relationship.
Practical recommendations from an ethologist
Decide in advance how many treats you’ll give so you don’t accidentally offer too many.
Use part of their regular food ration as treats: this helps avoid excess calories.
Choose small, frequent treats instead of large amounts. What matters is when you give the treat more than how much.
Observe your pet’s reaction: if treats cause excessive excitement, reserve them for specific moments and reinforce with petting or play at other times.
Treats are tools for communication, learning, and connection. But as with everything in nutrition and behavior, the key lies in moderation, quality, and timing.
