Dogs' tendency to pick up food from the ground is a common concern for their owners.
Genetic predispositions inherited from wild ancestors who hunted for survival explain this behavioral instinct.
In today's environment, such actions can pose a threat to the health of the animal, since spoiled food, toxic substances or foreign objects may be found on the streets.
Potential dangers
Picking up food from the street can lead to various health problems for your dog. Spoiled food can cause food poisoning, vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive disorders.
Poison laid out for rodents or stray animals can cause serious poisoning and sometimes even death.
Foreign objects such as glass shards, bones, or pieces of plastic can damage your dog's esophagus, stomach, or intestines.
Reasons for picking up food
There are several reasons why dogs pick up food outside. One of them is hunger. If a dog does not get enough food at home, it will look for it outside.
Dogs may also pick up food out of curiosity, exploring the world around them with their sense of smell and taste. Some dogs are prone to food aggression, meaning they protect their food and territory by picking up everything that comes their way.
Weaning methods
Teaching a dog not to pick up food on the street is not an easy task, requiring patience, consistency and the right approach.
One of the main methods is training. Teach your dog the command "no" or "no", which prohibits it from picking up anything from the ground. Start training at home, using treats and praise.
Gradually make the task more difficult by moving your workouts outside to places with minimal distractions.
Control and security
When walking, be sure to keep your dog on a leash to be able to control its actions.
Use a muzzle if your dog is prone to picking up food. Distract your dog with play, treats, or commands if he shows interest in anything on the ground.
Proper feeding
Make sure your dog gets enough quality food at home. Feed him on a schedule, don't leave food out. This will help reduce the likelihood that your dog will seek food outside due to hunger.
Earlier we wrote about why the cat suddenly lost its voice.
