You are walking calmly with your dog, and suddenly you notice a small tug on the leash. When you realize it, it is already late: something is eating off the ground! Although sometimes it is worse. Yes, yes, it can be even worse. It may not only eat the ground, but also what's in the trash can from home… or from outside, where they can be found toxic plants.
This is a problem that must be solved as soon as possible, since we know our organic waste, but on the street we do not know if someone has put poison. So I'm going to tell you how to prevent my dog from eating garbage.
Before getting into the subject, it is important to understand that dogs explore with their nose and mouth; garbage is a cocktail of irresistible smells and, if there is also boredom and anxiety or a diet that's not filling enough, the temptation increases. Eating junk food carries real risks: toxins (pesticides, poisons), sharp objects and spoiled remains that can cause vomiting, diarrhea or obstructions.
At home
When we are at home there are a number of things we have to do: control the environment and reduce motivation.
- Preventing the dog from accessing the garbage can: To do this, you can use repellants for dogs and, every time you see him approaching, say a firm NO (without yelling). Also, you have to throw out the trash on a daily basis to prevent the smell from becoming too strong.
- Divide your food into multiple intakes: with this we will ensure that its digestive system is busy most of the day, so the dog will not have as much need to eat.
- Give him a good quality food: sometimes it happens that a dog eats from the garbage because his usual food does not satisfy him completely; thus, it is recommended to give it a high quality feed, with a high meat content. Another option is to give him raw food or BARF.
- Secure the container: Place the bucket inside a closet or use a locking lid or resistant pedal; if you need it, a pinch of ground pepper on the lid can act as an olfactory repellent.
- More stimulation and exercise: Boredom encourages behavior; add quality walks, scent games, and interactive toys when you are alone to keep your mind busy.
Support everything with education: teach the commands "leaves" y “let it go” with positive reinforcement. Start at home with low-interest objects, reward self-control, and progress gradually before practicing outside.
Abroad
When we go out for a walk we have to be very aware of what may be on the street to be able to act on time. And how do you prevent the dog from picking up something off the ground? Anticipating. This is the key. As soon as you see something, show him a doggie treat and redirect him. Surround what is in the street and then give it the treat.
It is important that you know that you have to repeat many times In order for the dog to learn it, prepare a bag with treats and take it with you on walks.
In addition, it reinforces the management of the walk: use a strap of appropriate length To react in time, practice focus (“look at me”) and avoid snatching things from the mouth; offer a exchange better to prevent swallowing to protect the resource. In high-risk areas (streets full of waste, very dirty parks), consider a well-fitting muzzle that allows panting and drinking, but prevents swallowing objects.
- Common Hazards: chemicals (pesticides, poisons) and remains of decomposed food with bacteria or toxins; they can cause intoxications severe.
- Objects and waste: Glass, cooked bones and sharp sticks can cause wounds or obstructions that require surgery.
Remember that exploration is healthy and, in fact, Much of what you smell or lick is harmlessThe goal isn't to ban everything, but to teach your dog to ignore dangerous things by guiding them consistently and creating enriching and safe walks.
With patience and perseverance you will get your dog to stop eating from the garbage .. If despite applying these guidelines the behavior persists, consult your veterinarian to rule out medical problems (digestive or deficiencies) and with a dog trainer who can help you personalize the training.
