Ever stick your hand in your empty pocket as if you had a cookie in hopes your dog would run over to you? Have you ever taken a menacing step toward your dog in hopes they would sit more quickly? Both of these clever tricks really amount to lies you tell your dog. You don't have a cookie and you aren't going to hit them. But if they THINK those things are true, it could be to the owner's advantage. And taking advantage of our oh-so-honest dogs might not be the best idea. In the long run, it could lead to being ignored more, mistrust, or worse. Being honest with your dogs might be a better idea.