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Deni D.

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Founder & CEO

Counter surfing, where dogs steal food or items from countertops, can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. Here are some tips to discourage this behaviour...

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Our Top 10 Tips for dealing with counter surfing

Remove Temptations: Keep countertops clear of food, dishes, and any items that might tempt your dog to jump up and investigate.

Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for staying on the floor with treats and praise. Consistently reinforce this behaviour to encourage them to stay off the counters.

Training Commands: Teach your dog the "Leave it" and "Off" commands to help manage their behaviour around countertops. Use these commands consistently to deter them from counter surfing.

Supervision: Keep an eye on your dog when they are in the kitchen. If you catch them attempting to counter surf, interrupt them with a firm "No" and redirect their attention to a more appropriate activity.

Exercise and Enrichment: Ensure your dog is getting enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. Bored dogs are more likely to engage in counter surfing out of curiosity or boredo

Crate Training: Use a crate or a designated safe area to confine your dog when you are not able to supervise them. This prevents them from accessing the countertops and reinforces good behaviour.

Teach Alternative Behaviours: Encourage your dog to engage in alternative behaviours, such as lying on a mat or playing with toys, instead of counter surfing.

Consistency: Be consistent with your training and reinforcement efforts. Inconsistent responses can confuse your dog and make it harder to eliminate the behaviour.

Manage Stress and Anxiety: Address any underlying stress or anxiety that might be contributing to counter surfing. Consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer if you suspect your dog is counter surfing due to anxiety.

Seek Professional Help: If counter surfing persists despite your efforts, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviourist. They can provide personalised guidance and support to address the issue.

From the experts: Modify the environment to make counter surfing less rewarding. Use deterrents like motion-activated alarms or mats that emit a harmless static pulse when stepped on, which can startle your dog and discourage them from jumping on countertops.

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