Glossary

High-value treat

A food reward the dog finds especially tempting, such as cooked chicken or cheese, saved for difficult training moments.

Also called: high value reward, high-value reward, super treats, jackpot, reward value

Not all rewards are worth the same to a dog. A high-value treat is a food the dog loves more than its everyday kibble, such as small pieces of cooked chicken, cheese or hot dog. Trainers use them for hard tasks, such as coming away from a distraction or learning in a busy place.

Value is set by the dog and the situation. A dry biscuit may be plenty at home and not enough at the park. A "jackpot" is a handful of several high-value treats for an exceptional performance.

Keep the pieces tiny, so that the number of calories stays small, and count treats as part of the day's food. Some foods, including grapes, raisins, chocolate, xylitol products and onions, are unsafe for dogs. Ask a veterinarian about the right treats for a dog with allergies or special diets.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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