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One of the dog books I have, "Superpuppy" recommends putting "scary"
things on top of the trash can (i.e. noisemakers like soda cans filled with
pennies), so that when she pushes the can over, it will startle her. You will
probably have to do this repeatedly until she gets the idea that this will
always happen when she tried to get into the trash.
The other option is to put the can where she can't reach it. I know you said
you don't have room under the sink, but how about putting the can on the
counter top? (perhaps you want to switch to a smaller garbage can, too.
Personally, I have found that it's a lot easier to try to remove incredibly
tempting things from the dog's reach rather than try to "teach" her not to
do the thing.
Any idea abt Dog Christmas Ornaments? |
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gotta say, a lot of dogs are out there thinking it's okay to keep doing
rotten stuff, because everyone's read "don't correct unless you catch in
the act". Never corrected - must be a good thing.
BALONEY!!!!
I believe in the evidence theory. Left a steak on the counter, and the
dog ate it while you were gone? - BOY, are YOU stupid! - bet you'll think
twice before doing THAT again.
Dog has left pile of poop, half-shredded shoe, demolished book - VOILA -
EVIDENCE! The trick is in the timing of the correction. Don't react as
soon as you see the disaster - your dog will just think you coming home
spells C-O-R-R-E-C-T-I-O-N. Greet nonchalantly, take the dog, gently, to
the spot of problem, tell the dog this is VERRRRRY naughty, and you're not
thrilled, and then get over it. The next time you leave, prepare some
favorite items with a nice garnish of bitter apple - may or may not be
enough, but it is the first step.
I know some of you don't agree with this, but I've always found it
successful. If they never get told it isn't acceptable - how are they
going to figure that out on their own?
Does your dog get breakfast? A morning meal can help curb the desire to
scavenge. Does the dog have interesting chew toys? Does the dog have
structure - or do they usually make the rules? All of these can affect
your dogs behavior during your absence.
I had a great, very tall trashcan for the kitchen - made by a company
called Ingrid (swedish). The top latched on tightly, and it had a push
top (not a full swing top) that had a heavy duty spring. If a dog knocked
it over, it would be difficult for them to get anything out (although I
did have a cat jump onto -and INTO! it once). I now have a trash
compactor, that was here when I bought the house. Considered taking it
out - waste of cabinet space. Since we only have once-a-week trash
pickup, it has been wonderful. No pet can get into it - the ultimate
solution. ok, your dog has a habit of knocking over the trashcan. Apparently, this
is not the gist of your problem though. You don't want to leave the dog
crated all day, and I can't say that I blame you. Do you live in a house
or apartment? If you have a bit of space, you could make a dog pen outside
your back door, and let the dog come in and out at will. Put a dog door in
the back door.
Take your trash out last thing every night. The mystery of what's in the
trash can can be a vice to any dog. I'd for sure make arrangement where
the dog was never tempted to knock over the trashcan. Build a special bin
with a lid in which to keep the trash. Maybe a converted cupboard of some
kind. Something with a door you can close down tight or latch. Anything
that will end the game of "what's in the trash tonight, and how can I get
to it."
Don't hold your breath waiting for the day you can leave your dog loose
in the house while you are gone. Although it happens periodically that
people have dogs like this, it doesn't sound as if your dog is one of
these. |
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