How to prevent counter surfing in dogs

If you’ve ever walked into the kitchen to find your dog with their paws up on the counter and a missing sandwich, you’re not alone. “Counter surfing” is a common behaviour in dogs, especially those who are curious, food motivated, or simply bored. Counter surfing is not only frustrating, it can be dangerous if your dog ingests harmful foods or kitchen items. The good news is that with consistency and patience, you can prevent this unwanted behaviour. 

Why dogs counter surf 

Dogs explore the world with their noses, and kitchen counters often smell like a buffet of irresistible scents. If they’ve had success grabbing food before, they’ll likely try again – it’s rewarding! Understanding this helps us tackle the root of the problem: access and temptation. 

Prevention tips and tricks 

• Manage the environment. Keep counters clear of food and enticing objects. If there’s nothing rewarding to find, your dog will be less motivated to check. 

• Provide alternatives. Make sure your dog has plenty of appropriate chew toys, puzzle feeders, or snuffle mats. Mental stimulation can reduce the urge to scavenge. 

• Reward good behaviour. When your dog chooses to stay on the floor while you’re preparing food, praise and reward them. Consistently reinforcing calm, polite behaviour teaches them that good things happen away from the counters. 

• Teach a solid “leave it.” This command is helpful not just in the kitchen but in many situations. Start with low value items (like kibble, plain dog treats, or veggies) on the floor and reward your dog for ignoring them, gradually working up to higher temptations. 

• Use baby gates. If you’re cooking and can’t supervise, create barriers to keep your dog out of the kitchen. 

For more training tips, visit our blog. 

Tips for adopted adult dogs 

If you’ve welcomed an adult dog into your home who has a history of counter surfing, don’t worry– adult dogs can learn new habits, too! Be patient and consistent: 

• Set them up for success. Don’t leave food unattended where they can reach it. Preventing the behaviour is easier than correcting it. 

• Stick to routines. Predictable mealtimes and regular training sessions help your new dog settle in and understand boundaries. 

• Use positive reinforcement. Avoid punishment, which can create fear or confusion. Instead, reward behaviours you want to see repeated. 

With time, patience, and consistency, your dog can learn that the counter is off limits. By providing structure, enrichment, and clear boundaries, you’ll help keep your four-legged friend safe and your snacks secure! 

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