I make my own training treats too. Chickpea flour, liver and kidneys and one egg. I liquidise and bake on a baking sheet. No wheat, no gluten and easy to use. But then again, at just under 5lbs, Ben is HORRIBLY obese! LOL!
Now for the toy question. Some of my homework for this week for you Fran.
Although many dogs work very happily for food, you do get an undeniable extra burst of speed and enthusiasm when your dog is interested in a toy, and that will be important in your agility career. If you have a dog who doesn't play easily even after the tips below, do contact us so that we can give some help. Teaching your dog to play may take a while (eg weeks or months), so be patient. Tips I would give...
1. When you want to start a play game with your dog, pick your time wisely, when they are very excited. I taught my dog to tug by carrying something with me when I first entered the kitchen in the morning (their sleeping area) when I knew she'd be excited. I'd do the same thing before evening chow time.
2. Act crazy. You need to let go of a few inhibitions and really let loose. Make growling noises, get physical with them (unless they are the nervy sort) and give them a good scratching and fur ruffling back and forth quickly up and down their body, run around the garden dangling a toy for them to chase.
3. Find a good toy. Many dogs like squeaky toys, particularly if you follow rule no 2 and act crazy with them. My dogs like to tug on a bit of sheepskin tied to a lead or rope - the "real" material is very enticing. Drag the toy along the ground and run with it.
4. Keep the sessions short. I'm talking 30 seconds short if you are just teaching your dog to play. You always want to end the game before they do.