1. Train your dog.
Using positive reinforcement, you can teach your dog the command "Leave it." This means they should stop what they're doing and come back to you when you say the command. Here's how to train this:
- Hold a treat in your hand and let your dog sniff it.
- When they start to move toward the treat, say "Leave it" in a firm voice and immediately pull the treat away.
- Repeat this process several times until your dog consistently stops moving towards the treat when you say "Leave it."
- Once they've mastered this, start practicing in different locations and with different distractions.
2. Keep human food out of reach.
This means storing food in airtight containers and keeping it on counters or shelves that your dog can't access. You should also be mindful of where you eat, and never leave food unattended on the table or in the kitchen.
3. Give your dog plenty of other food.
Sometimes, dogs eat human food because they're hungry. Make sure you're feeding your dog a healthy diet and enough of it. You may also want to try feeding them smaller meals more often, so that they don't get too hungry.
4. Be consistent.
The most important thing is to be consistent with your training and your rules. If you give your dog human food even once, they'll learn that it's okay, and it will be much more difficult to break the habit.
If you're having trouble stopping your dog from eating your food, you may want to consult with a professional dog trainer.