Train your pet to stop begging for food with “go to your place” command
We love pets, so we get just how hard it is to say no when they turn up the cuteness factor and start begging for food. But giving in to those big eyes can cause all kinds of problems, from unhealthy weight gain to serious toxicity.
The solution to this conundrum? Train your pet not to beg in the first place! Your pet will be healthier and you will get to eat your meals in peace—it’s a win-win.
The key to successfully stopping your pet from begging is to train them to do something else during mealtimes instead. A great option is to teach your pet to go to a bed or a crate while you eat. This “go to your place” command is also wonderful for ending other unwanted behaviors, like barking at the door or jumping on visitors, and for making your pet feel safe in new places, like the vet’s office.
Bed, blanket, mat—whatever you designate as your pet’s go-to spot, be sure that it’s a positive space your pet loves. Make it their happy place with plenty of treats and cuddles, and never send your pet there as a punishment.
Training sessions should start outside of mealtime, so neither of you are distracted. Give your pet their cue word, like “bed” or “mat,” and then reward them as soon as they put a paw on it. You can use a treat to help lure them to the right spot, if needed. Over time, start rewarding them only once more paws are on, until your pet is used to settling onto their place with all four paws when asked.
Next, wait to reward your pet after they’ve stayed put for some time, and give them a release word before they can get off. As they get used to spending more time in their place, you can then start adding distance between you and your pet until they’re comfortable hanging out in their place without you.
Now your pet is ready to practice during meals! Make their time in their place that much better with a special reserved toy for this purpose or a toy stuffed with some of their dinner to keep them entertained. And voilà! No more begging at the table.
See how this training looks like in real life for both cats and dogs in our helpful AskVCA training videos.
