How to Train Your Dog Not to Beg at Dinner

Teach your dog from the very beginning that begging isn't allowed. It's much easier to prevent the habit from ever starting than to end it. Here's what you need to know.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Buster Cubes
• Dog Food
• Dog Training Aids
• Dog Treats
• Mini Buster Cubes

1. Avoid feeding your dog at the table.
2. Train your dog to perform a long "down, stay."
3. Ignore your pup completely while you eat to discourage begging behavior. That means no eye contact, no talking and no reprimanding throughout the training phase.
4. Give your dog a Buster cube - a rolling toy filled with food that drops out as the dog plays - while you eat. Use a training treat ball for smaller dogs.
5. Reward your dog with plenty of praise, affection and a treat (away from the table) after you're done with your meal.
6. Be consistent in your training. Giving in now and then will only confuse your dog.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that if you're ending the begging habit, your dog will get worse before getting better.
• If you can't resist giving your dog table scraps, keep him in the other room while you eat and give him the scraps later in his food bowl.