Should I give my dog a treat every time I leave

You grab your keys, and suddenly your dog is pacing, whining, or even chewing the couch—classic separation anxiety signs. You’ve heard giving a treat when you leave might calm them, but you’re worried: Will this create a bad habit, or is it actually helpful? Many new U.S. dog owners struggle with this question, and the answer is nuanced: Treats can work, but only if used the right way—they’re not a band-aid for anxiety, but a tool to make leaving feel positive.

Behaviorists call this “positive association”: When you pair leaving with something your dog loves (like a tasty treat), their brain links your departure to a good experience instead of fear. For example, my sister’s rescue dog, Lila, used to bark for hours after she left—until she started giving Lila a Kong stuffed with peanut butter right before walking out. Now Lila looks forward to the treat, not the stress. But here’s the catch: If you give the treat while your dog is already panicking (panting, drooling), it won’t help—you need to offer it before anxiety sets in. Treats work best when they distract your dog and build trust that you’ll come back, not when they’re used to “bribe” a stressed pup.

To do it right, start by timing the treat 1-2 minutes before you leave—when your dog is still calm. Choose a long-lasting option (like a frozen yogurt-filled chew or a puzzle treat) instead of a quick biscuit; this keeps them occupied while you’re gone. For apartment dwellers, this is extra useful—distracted dogs are less likely to bark nonstop and annoy neighbors. If your dog still acts anxious, don’t scold them (punishment will worsen fear); instead, try shorter departures first (5-10 minutes) and gradually increase time. Over time, they’ll learn your leaving isn’t permanent.

Never use treats as an excuse to skip addressing severe separation anxiety—if your dog destroys furniture or has accidents when alone, consult a certified positive reinforcement trainer. Also, avoid unhealthy treats high in sugar or artificial ingredients; opt for vet-approved options like plain cooked chicken or carrot sticks.

Before heading out, double-check your dog’s vaccine status—all U.S. states require rabies shots, and core vaccines like distemper are mandatory. When you return, always carry poop bags for your walk; leaving messes in apartment hallways or neighborhood parks isn’t just rude—it’s illegal in most cities (fines can reach $300 in places like San Francisco).

Giving a treat every time you leave can be a great tool for calm dogs, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. With patience and the right approach, it can turn departure stress into a positive routine for both you and your pup.