The reward is not only what the pet receives. It is also when it arrives. A treat delivered one second later can reinforce standing, jumping, turning away, staring, or coming back, depending on the moment.
Audit the click or marker
If you use a marker word or clicker, record one session and watch when the marker happens. Mark the behavior you want, not the movement that happens after you reach for the treat.
Audit treat placement
Where the treat appears affects the next repetition. A treat placed forward may encourage pulling forward. A treat delivered near your side may make returning easier. A treat tossed away may create space and reset arousal.
Audit recovery
If the pet can take food but cannot settle afterward, the reward was not enough to make the session appropriate. Reduce difficulty before increasing repetition count.