Do I have to use food to train my dog, and if I start, will I always have to use it?

You don’t have to use food to train your dog, but it is one of the easiest, quickest and most humane ways of training because it is such a powerful motivator. If you supply this most basic need to your dog, who is an opportunistic feeder, you will get much more attention more quickly than just praise alone and he become very attentive in your presence.

Positive reinforcement is a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Over time you will be able to ask him to do many things without a treat, but you should give him treats intermittently to maintain attention and good behavior. You have to feed your dog every day anyway, so why not make it more interesting and fun for both of you? Of course food is not the only thing dogs like, so don’t forget about praise and petting, or playing, or special toys. Maybe even a car ride or some dog play. Anything a dog values can be used in training as a reward.