From the (this makes me smile) UKDailyMail.com:

Clever boy! Dogs prefer to EARN treats by solving problems, rather than receiving handouts

by Jonathan O’Callaghan

• Researchers in Sweden say dogs like to solve problems just like humans
  
• They found the pets were visibly happier when they had a ‘eureka moment’
  
• In experiments 12 beagle dogs were trained to use pieces of equipment
• Half had to use the equipment to get a reward while the other half didn’t
• And the scientists found those that had to earn their reward were happier

In humans the ‘eureka moment’ is a commonly known feeling that occurs when we solve a particularly troubling problem.

But new research suggests that we’re not the only animals to experience this – dogs, too, gain pleasure from solving a tricky task.

In a series of experiments, scientists found dogs were happier when they earned a reward by performing a task, rather than just being handed a treat.

Proving once again: dogs are smarter than Free Cheese Leftists.  Now, to include illegal immigrants of all stripes.

People value nothing that they have not earned.  And “earning” generally involves work, sacrifice, pain and hardship.

Free Cheese solves nothing.

Even dogs know that.

BZ