How to Teach a Dog Not to Beg

Table begging is more than just an annoyance -- it can be potentially harmful to your pet, warns veterinarian and behaviourist Wayne Hunthausen. Dogs who are frequently fed at the table can suffer any of the following problems:

• Obesity (Click here for tips on how to help your obese dog.)
  
  
• Recurring intestinal problems from eating fatty or spicy foods
  
  
• Choking on bones
  
  
• Hyperactivity and anxiety
  
  
• Seizures -- a possibility if chocolate, which contains theobromine, is consumed. Theobromine is toxic to dogs

Dogs beg at the table because we let them, and it only takes one time for the habit to begin. Unfortunately, attention-seeking behaviours like begging don't have to be indulged often to become a nuisance. The most effective way to get a dog to stop begging at the table is to completely ignore him, a task that's often easier said than done. According to Dr. Hunthausen, this means not talking to the animal or even making eye contact. "When you scold a dog in an effort to get him to stop begging, you're giving him social attention and a form of reinforcement," he explains. "You can't acknowledge the animal in any way."

Expect your dog's begging to get worse before it gets better. If whining at 20 decibels doesn't result in food, he'll think that he isn't trying hard enough and will start whining at 40 decibels. As unpleasant as this may be for a few days, stand firm. Eventually your dog will realise that his efforts no longer work.

If you train consistently, you should see positive results within several weeks. Consistency is the key. Even one tiny snack from the table here and there can erase everything you've worked so hard to achieve, Dr. Hunthausen notes. Make sure all family members and dinner guests understand what you're doing and why you're doing it, so no one inadvertently sneaks your dog a treat when they think you're not looking.

Here are a few more tips to stop your begging dog:

• Feed him at the same time you eat. If your dog is enjoying his own food, he can't beg for yours.
  
  
• Give him something else to do. Try sticking some Eukanuba® Biscuits in a few Kong® toys so he'll have something to play with while you eat.
  
  
• Put him in another room, or if your dog has been crate-trained, place him in his crate to prevent him from scratching at the door.
  
  
• Take your dog for a long walk just before dinnertime. "If the dog is worn out, the intensity of the begging behaviour will decrease," Dr. Hunthausen explains. "Tired dogs are good dogs."

Sometimes you can interrupt annoying tableside behaviours by stomping your foot or striking the table. But remember, your goal is to startle your dog, not to frighten him. Dr. Hunthausen also advises to never strike your dog for begging, as this will not correct the unwanted behaviour. Instead, it can result in fear and avoidance, behavioural problems or even aggression.

For more information on the proper feeding habits for your dog, visit our Questions and Answers Section’s, Frequently Asked Questions. You’ll find answers to many of your most common questions.