This is a very effective way of distracting a dog and giving it something to concentrate on, and is particularly useful with getting a dog used to having a harness put on, or to desensitise "hand shy" dogs.

Tightly hold a tasty food treat between your fingers and thumb - a very small piece of cheese, cooked meat, burger, sausage, or a crunchy dog biscuit is very effective. Then allow the dog to lick and nibble at the treat so that it gradually manages to get the treat from between your fingers and thumb, rather than allowing the dog to take it in one quick gulp! Even when the treat is gone allow the dog to lick every last molecule of the treat from your fingers - What we often do not realise is that part of the reward for the dog is to make absolutely sure that they have left nothing behind.