Dog Owners’ Actions: Minimizing Begging at the Table

Although many types of table food are not safe for dogs, pets often beg for food. Interestingly enough, research conducted by a University of Florida research team suggests that dogs may decide whether to beg based on the physical actions of the person eating. When dogs were exposed to people who faced them versus people whose faces were hidden from view, they were more likely to beg from people facing them. The study was conducted with wolves, stray dogs and pets. Pet dogs seemed to be able to interpret the behavior of the subjects better than strays and wolves, presumably because they had experience living with humans. However, even if your dog is experienced at interpreting your behavior, there are steps you can take to minimize begging.

If your dog attempts to beg, avoid looking at him. You will be sending a message that you may succumb and give him food. Above all, do not give your dog table food. You will be reinforcing his behavior, and encouraging begging.

Keep in mind that when you are making dinner and eating, your dog is drawn to the scent of your food. You can prevent him from approaching the table by barring his access. Either set up a gate or put him in a room or crate that limits his ability to approach the table.

Another possibility that will keep your dog from begging is to distract him. Give your dog toys to chew and entertain him. You could also provide your dog with his meal while you are eating. If your dog is satisfied, he is less likely to be interested in your food.

Essenti Enterprises, LLC has a line of scented toys that can keep your busy and happy while you eat. Additionally, if you want to feed your dog while you are eating, encourage your dog to eat by putting his food in his dog dish. Position the dish so it is away from your own eating area.  Essenti dog dishes are durable and stable, so they stay in one place making it easy for your dog to enjoy his meal without becoming frustrated. Order our pet products, and let them help you keep your dog away from your own dining table.

Showing Your Dog: Improving His Physical Appearance

When entering your dog in a show, he is judged on his behavior and his appearance. Judges evaluate your dog’s appearance based on the breed’s standards.

Daily activities can help your dog maintain his appearance before you enter him in a show. Walk and play with him regularly, so he maintains a fit physique. Additionally, establish a routine for grooming and hygiene, so he remains healthy and shows well. This includes brushing his teeth, cleaning his ears and feeding him the right food. Dry food can help teeth remain healthy.

While regular care and hygiene is important, you want your dog’s coat to shine during a show. Therefore, you either need to hire a groomer who is knowledgeable about grooming show dogs and familiar with the standards of the breed, or you must be adept and knowledgeable enough to perform the task.

If you decide to hire a groomer, obtain referrals from other people who show dogs, contact a vet or ask for a recommendation from a kennel club. Meet with the groomer to discuss his qualifications. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the grooming area and where dogs are kept while waiting for grooming.

Regardless of whether you groom your dog or hire a professional, your dog’s physique, fur and features must look their best. Your dog will be inspected very carefully, and grooming tips vary depending on the breed and the type of hair. The Low Chens Australia website, for example, provides breed-specific grooming tips. Pay special attention to your dog’s feet, nails, fur and facial features when grooming him.

Inspect your dog’s toenails. If you hear them hit against a floor, they are too long. Clipping a dog’s nails can be difficult because if they are cut too short, the dog may bleed if the blood vein is cut. It is usually necessary to trim hair on longer haired dogs because it grows between their foot pads.

When shampooing the dog, he needs products based on his breed and hair type. Brush your dog before shampooing him. Longer haired dogs are dried with a dryer. As the hair dries, it is styled or cut to maximize attractiveness or hide imperfections. Shorter haired dogs are often towel dried, but their hair is brushed, styled and cut to maximize their physical appearance. Grooming can take hours, but is usually more time-consuming for long-haired breeds.

Essentit’s quality retractable leashes and dog toys can help dogs get the exercise they need to look healthy and fit for a show. You can also use them if your dog needs a short break from grooming. Browse our product line today.