Dear Rosie,

My mom keeps trying to give me treats during agility class when I do right, but I won’t take treats at class
(I do gobble them up when we train at home, though). How can I tell her why I don’t take treats at class and
what she can do to reward me?

Sincerely,
Treat Woes

Dear Treat Woes,

Not wanting to take treats? It’s outrageous! But here is what my mom has to say: It is not that uncommon for
dogs not to want to take treats in unfamiliar settings. If you are food-motivated at home, you will probably eventually
eat treats other places as you get more familiar with your surroundings. In the meantime, this is a good opportunity
for your mom to find other ways to reward you, such as using toys, play, and praise. Food is not the only way to
reward, even for dogs who will happily eat during class.

Wishing you happy ahrrooooos,
Rosie

Dear Rosie,

My mother is a little bit frustrated with me because I do not like to do the table at trials. I will do it fine in practice
but I get so hyped up at a trial that I like to jump on and off the table and give her fits about it. What do you recommend?

Sincerely,
Table Woes

Dear Table Woes,

You have definitely succeeded in frustrating your mother! I used to like to take a looooooong time to do my table
position at trials. One time it took me 72 seconds to down on the table, because I enjoyed posing for the crowd and
wagging my tail at everyone. I thought that was acceptable because everyone clapped and laughed when I did it. Everyone
except my mom. It sounds like you are so happy running and you don’t want to stop to do your table in the middle of your run.
My mom stopped rewarding me in practice for a less than stellar table performance. It helped me to understand that I
have to do the table position even when I don’t want to, or when I’d rather just pose for the audience. I learned I can still pose
and win their hearts while doing my sit, down, or stand stay. I hope this helps.

Wishing you happy ahrrooooos,
Rosie