Six ways to prevent your dog from eating what he shouldn’t, outside and at home

MOST dog owners have experienced a moment of panic when their pet grabs something from the ground while walking, from food scraps to potentially toxic substances. At home, dogs sometimes reach for things that are definitely not for consumption: chocolate, raisins, cleaning products. Not only is it frustrating, it can also be seriously dangerous to their health.

Dog behavior experts and veterinarians agree – prevention is key. Here are a few ways to stop your dog from eating what he shouldn’t.

Teach him the command “leave it” or “let it go”

This command is one of the most useful you can teach your dog. It helps him ignore things he finds on the floor and can be vital in emergency situations. Training is carried out with positive reinforcement, reward the dog every time he obeys. Patience and consistency are key to success.

Watch out for clutter in the house and yard.

Many dangerous substances and foods are found by dogs right at home. Chocolate, onions, raisins, detergents, medicines, all of these should be out of their reach. Even the trash can should be secured because the smells can be overwhelming.

Watch out for leftover food on the street

When walking, be especially careful around schools, restaurants and park benches. These are the places where dogs most often find leftover food. Keep your dog on a shorter leash in these areas for better control.

Reward ignoring, not just listening

When your dog walks past food or waste on the floor and ignores it on his own initiative, praise and reward him immediately. This reinforces the desired behavior and shows him that listening to you pays off.

Know the signs of poisoning and react quickly

If your dog does eat something suspicious, it’s important to know the symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, tremors, or a sudden change in behavior. In this case, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Think about his eating behavior, maybe he’s missing something.

Sometimes dogs eat things they shouldn’t because they’re lacking a certain nutrient in their diet or they’re just bored. Make sure they have a good quality, balanced diet and plenty of physical and mental stimulation throughout the day.