How to Stop Your Dog From Begging

As you train your dog, there will be habits you'll want to eliminate. Begging at the table can turn into whining when the dog isn't acknowledged. From there it can escalate to barking and howling until the animal gets its way. That's something you'll want to stop before it gets out of control.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Treats

1. Hold the food or a treat near your dog, something you know he'll want. Let the dog sniff it but don't let him eat. Make him beg for the treat.

2. Give your dog a command like "Sit" or "Down" to get him to earn his treats. If your dog is capable of other, more complex tricks, use those as well.

3. Take another treat out and let the dog sniff it again.

4. Hold the treat near your body. Since you haven't given the dog a command, he will likely jump on you to get to the treat.

5. Push the dog away and command him with words like "No" or "Stop." This is important: do not repeat commands. Say any command you choose only once, loud enough for the dog to hear and firmly enough for your pet to understand your intent.

6. Push the dog into a desired position until he remains where you place him, then reward the dog for listening and following commands.

7. Ignore the dog whenever it begs in other circumstances. If, for example, you're eating dinner at the table and the dog repeatedly tries to get food from you, continue to ignore him until he stops. Wait for a brief interval and reward him with food for ceasing to beg.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit a professional dog trainer if you can't train your dog to stop begging.