Stop the Begging!

Dogs have no self control when it comes to food. Of course, some breeds are worse than others. Golden Retrievers are affectionately called “Garbage Guts” for their tendency to eat anything and everything.

The more we give our dogs, the more they eat; they have no say in the matter — we are their caretakers. And don’t forget that your dog’s diet includes every treat and table scrap, not just his regular feedings. Every bite impacts his health.

The set-up

By giving in to your little beggar, you’re setting yourself up for everlasting begging behavior. And while it may be cute at first, when you stop rewarding him the persistent attention-seeking behavior goes into full swing: crying, pawing, barking, and jumping.

The solution is simple. Never give in. Never, never, never! This goes for every member of the family, and every person who sets foot in your home. Your dog has a great memory for that one time you gave in — and then you’re back to square one. Persistence and consistency are crucial, as they are in all matters of dog training.

Hang tough

If you hang in there, eventually the begging will stop, which is important because beyond the irritation factor, begging can have real consequences for your dog’s health. Overeating and obesity spawn countless health issues: joint, hip, and foot problems; bloat; pancreatitis; diabetes; and more.

Your dog doesn’t understand that to feel great and be long-lived, he needs to keep his weight down. But we certainly do. As he ages, his bones and joints become more painful. It’s heartbreaking to know that your dog is in discomfort or pain. (Not to mention that dogs in pain can be cranky and prone to biting.)

Food FYI

Training rewards. Use pieces of kibble to train your dog from the start. This is a healthy treat he eats anyway. Then mix it up a bit — kibble with non-food rewards, like praise and petting. In time, he’ll love it all.

I’m starving! Under some circumstances dogs can get unusually hungry. Some medications may make him hungrier, or maybe he’s on a vet prescribed weigh-loss plan. An increase in exercise or more time spent in a cold climate will also boost the desire for food. In these cases, small, frequent meals can help your dog stay satisfied. Consult your vet if you have questions.

Evaluate often. Ask your vet to assess your dog’s weight regularly to determine a suitable daily diet. They can also evaluate how much fat he’s carrying around — and what to do about it.

Eating style. Consult your veterinarian to make sure your dog’s eating often enough. This can be especially important for special health situations, such as small-breed pups prone to hypoglycemia.

Watching his weight and diet is your lifelong responsibility. It’s the area of care that can make the most difference to your dog in terms of the quality — and quantity — of his life.