Some training tools stand the test of time because they’re trendy. Others last because they work. Tuna fudge falls squarely into the second category.
In this video, I share a simple homemade dog treat recipe we’ve used for years — why it’s so effective in training, how to make it, and when to use it for the biggest impact without overdoing it.
Dog Treat Recipe: Tuna Fudge
Every trainer has a short list of tools they come back to again and again — not because they’re flashy, but because they’re reliable.
Tuna fudge is one of ours.
It’s not gourmet.
It’s not expensive.
And it hasn’t changed much in over ten years.
That’s exactly why it works.
Why Homemade Training Treats Matter
Training treats aren’t just food.
They’re feedback.
A good training treat should:
be easy to eat quickly
hold value in distracting environments
keep the dog engaged without overstimulation
support repetition without frustration
Tuna fudge checks all of those boxes.
Its smell carries.
Its texture is soft.
And it can be cut into tiny pieces without losing value.
Why Tuna Fudge Works So Well
The effectiveness of tuna fudge has nothing to do with novelty and everything to do with function.
It’s:
high-value without being overwhelming
consistent in texture and taste
easy to portion for high-rate reinforcement
cost-effective for regular training use
This makes it ideal for:
early learning stages
new environments
puppies who need frequent feedback
dogs who struggle to stay engaged outside the home
The Recipe (Simple on Purpose)
This isn’t a culinary exercise.
It’s a training solution.
Use whatever exact recipe version you already share in the video — the power here isn’t the precision, it’s the predictability. Dogs don’t need variety. They need clarity.
Once baked and cooled, cut into small, soft pieces and store appropriately.
When to Use (and When Not To)
Use tuna fudge when:
introducing new skills
training in higher-distraction environments
working with puppies or fearful dogs
you need fast, clear reinforcement
Don’t rely on it when:
a dog is overstimulated beyond learning
environmental management needs adjusting
criteria are unclear
A high-value treat can support learning — but it can’t replace clarity or emotional readiness.
How This Fits Into a Balanced Training Approach
One of the biggest fears people have is creating food dependence.
In reality, consistent success builds confidence — not dependency.
As skills stabilize:
reinforcement becomes intermittent
life rewards take over
engagement becomes self-reinforcing
Tuna fudge doesn’t create reliance.
It creates understanding.
The Takeaway
This recipe has lasted for a reason.
It’s simple.
It’s effective.
And it supports learning without hype.
When something works for ten years across thousands of dogs, it earns its place.
Until next time, Have Fun & Enjoy Your Dog!
Jody Karow – CTC
Dog Life Coach & Founder of Go Anywhere Dog®
P.S. Don’t forget to check out our online dog training program for living your best life with your dog!
P.P.S. Don’t miss our local services in Minneapolis & Edina, MN areas providing In Home Puppy & Dog Training and Puppy Classes in Minneapolis, MN for the social family dog.
