How to stop your dog from stealing food from the table
If the dog at least once managed to understand that it is possible to grab without asking and swallow what is on the table, it will certainly try to carry out this maneuver again. And again … What to do in this case? How to wean a dog from stealing food from the table?
First of all, it should be taken into account that the main “treatment” in this case is prevention, that is, the management of the situation. It is necessary to ensure that the dog does not have access to the products lying on the table in those moments when you cannot control the pet. Otherwise, the dog will steal food from the table from time to time, and behavior correction will become impossible.
But when you have the ability to control the situation, start learning.
Stock up on treats your dog loves. And put something not so beloved on the table. Don’t say anything. And when the dog tries to pull off what is lying on the table, silently cover the piece with your hand so that the pet cannot grab it.
At the same time, when the dog refrains for even a second from stealing food from the table, immediately praise and offer a tastier treat from your hand.
Gradually complicate the conditions for the dog. And remember that the main thing is to reward the dog a lot and generously for the behavior that you like, and not allow the pet to reinforce unwanted actions.