Stop Unwanted Begging on Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, we can expect our dog to be doing a lot of begging for food. Who wouldn’t? And while there are foods that are okay to give your dog, most owners do not want their dog constantly begging, especially if you have a full house for the holiday. Begging is a very common behavior issue, but with willpower and practice, it is possible to correct. Here are a few steps to hopefully put the begging to rest.

Don’t Give Them The Food

While it may be easy to give into the begging since we do love our dogs, it is pertinent that you do not. The more times you give your dog food when they beg and whine, the more they associate that behavior with reward (food.) Really try to never give your dog food when they beg, and eventually your dog will associate negative response with their begging.

Ignore

This may be another challenge for many dog owners. It is hard to resist the eyes and whines, but try to ignore your dog when they beg. They are usually doing it for attention, so not giving them the attention will help diminish the behavior. When you hug them and talk sweetly, they feel rewarded. Don’t make eye contact or touch them.

Consistency

Make sure everyone in your home is on the same page about disciplining your dog. If a family member is giving into the begging, your work with your pup is going to waste and your dog learns nothing. You have to be consistent with ignoring begging. Set rules for everyone that interacts with your dog daily.

Be patient. Most dogs take some time to correct behaviors like this. Remember, you know your dog is well feed and you do not need to feel bad for them! Consistency is key, so just keep up your discipline. Good luck and Happy Thanksgiving!