Grooming, Counter-surfing, & Finding the Right Trainer
Kris Hampton, CTC, CPDT-KA
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Tip 1: Counter-surfing and Garbage Raiding
Dogs who grab food off counters or get into the garbage aren’t being naughty—they’re just being dogs! Think about how strong the reward is for this behavior: “I get CHICKEN scraps from this surface sometimes!”
A behavior that consistently works is tough to break. Because the rewards are so tempting, punishing your dog usually backfires—it just teaches them when and where to scavenge, not to stop entirely. They might behave when you’re around, but the moment you leave, the scavenging resumes!
The best solution? Management. Keep garbage cans in child-locked cupboards, never leave food unattended on counters, and give your dog legal ways to get tasty treats and chew toys. Try treat treasure hunts, sniffaris, or long-lasting chews like yak chews!
Tip 2: Finding The Right Trainer
How do you choose the right trainer? Here are some tips to guide you:
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Check their website and social media. Look for keywords like positive reinforcement, evidence-based, force-free, and fear-free.
Verify their education and certifications. A good trainer should be knowledgeable in both training and canine behavior. Some reputable certifications include CTC, KPA, Dip.CBST, FFC, VSA, PPG, and IAABC. This isn’t an exhaustive list, so look into their credentials or just ask!
Ask questions! Don’t hesitate to ask about their training methods, how they reward or correct behavior, and what tools they use. A professional trainer will welcome your questions. And remember—it’s always okay to say no if something feels off.
Thought Of The Month:
Working on cooperative care—like grooming, vet visits, and unexpected situations—is essential for your dog’s health and happiness. The secret? Move at your dog’s pace and practice before you actually need it!
Need a hand from a pro? Let’s get your dog on the right track—book your training today!
