Dogs are very clever and they are always asking 'what is in it for me?'. If we are requesting them to come, sit, wait, give, leave etc., using a very tasty and smelly reward such as liver cake will encourage your dog to get it right without using any force or fear. This cake is especially good if your dog sometimes needs a really high value food reward to encourage them to cooperate. We always need to be careful with food rewards, as a dog will quickly learn what they need to do to get the food reward and will start to ask for it, even if we haven't requested them to do anything. Has your dog ever just come and sat in front of you without being asked when you have food? if you reward this behaviour, your dog will certainly believe they are in charge. In this scenario I would simply walk away and then call the dog to you later for a yummy reward. Everything needs to be on your terms and by using this cake as a reward your doggy will soon be cooporating.
Ingredients
450g (1lb) Raw Liver (I use pork)
450g (1lb) self-raising gluten-free flour
3 eggs
Milk/Water
Method
Pre heat the oven to 180 degrees fan
Crack the eggs into a measuring jug and double the volume with milk. Whisk to mix.
Using a blender, liquidise the liver to a smooth consistency
Mix the egg/milk mixture to the blended liver.
In a large bowl, gradually stir in the flour until you have a sticky dough-like consistency
If you are using baking trays, line with grease proof paper or spray a mini muffin tray with an oil spray.
Transfer mixture into baking tray or spoon mixture into muffin tray. Do not over fill as the cake will raise.
Bake in the oven. If you are making a big cake then you will need to bake for about 75-90 mins. If your are making mini muffins then bake for about 20-30 mins. The top should be brown and should bounce back when pressed lightly.
Remove and allow to cool then cut into small sized bites or leave whole if you are making a cake. You can then decorate using dog friendly icying sugar.
Store in the fridge for up to a week. They are also suitable for freezing.
I would love to know if any of you make this and see some pictures. If you would like any more information on using food as a reward please do get in touch. Happy cooking and happy doggies.