Solve Your Dog's Counter-Surfing

If given the chance, most dogs will counter-surf. Temptation + Access = Trouble. Here are some tips to solve this problem with your dog.

1. Teach Him Leave It

Teach your dog the Leave It command. Any time you catch him checking out food on the table or counter, instruct him to leave it. You can also practice with him by placing food within reach and then instructing him to leave it (reward him with a separate treat).

2. Manage the Environment

Use a crate or playpen to keep him in his area when you are cooking and eating. A dog gate will work too. By preventing access to the food you prevent him from stealing it.

3. Surprise Him

To prevent owner absent theft, you can take an empty soda can, fill it with a few coins, and tie that to a food item that is left within his reach. Set the can up so that when he grabs the food it will knock the can over. This will startle him and should make him less likely to take food without permission.

4. No Free Lunch Policy

Make sure that you are setting clear house rules and following them consistently. Clarify that you are the pack leader so that he will follow your commands.

5. Claim your Space

Establish boundary lines that he is not permitted to cross. If you want to cook and/or eat in peace, set a line he has to stay behind. Any time he crosses over, walk directly toward him and gently force him to back up until he's behind the line. Then instruct him to stay. He'll soon learn that you have claimed that area as your territory.

Remember to be extra careful when you have a gathering that includes food. While a missing steak can be a disappointment, a missing bowl of chocolate or grapes can be a big deal (here's a list of dangerous foods).