Why Does My Dog Keep Stealing My Food?!

First, you have to make sure that there is no medical condition that’s decreasing your dog’s appetite, therefore making them hungry enough to steal your food. Once this issue has been resolved at the vet, you have to ensure it’s not a behavioral problem.

It’s unfair to think that your dog will be able to resist himself if he smells and sees something delicious cooking in the kitchen. Having said that, every time your dog steals your food and is successful, the chances of him repeating that behavior is high. Usually, when we see a dog putting his paws on the kitchen counter we indirectly praise them and that makes them know that they have your attention.

The best way to avoid this to keep your dogs occupied by allowing them to channel their energy into something more acceptable. We must also remember that kitchens aren’t safe for dogs – there are knives, hot pans, boiling food – all hazards for your dog. Apart from that, you can:

1. Give your dog food puzzles, chew toys and games to keep them occupied,
2. Train your dog to listen to you when you ask him to stay or sit in his spot when you’re busy in the kitchen,
3. Train your dog how to “leave it” and “drop it” when he’s attempting to grab something from the kitchen,

Try to minimize your dog’s ability to enter the kitchen by placing them in their crates when you’re not supervising or by installing gates to prevent access to the kitchen.

How do you stop your dogs from stealing your food? Let us know in the comments!

Feature Image Source: Pixabay