Americans create 4.5 pounds of solid waste/trash a day. Put a lot of Americans in a city and you will find that there is a lot of that trash that doesn't make it into a trashcan. To your dog's superb nose this smells like a feast. Rib bones, left over greasy containers, bits of lo mein - these are easy pickings. Your dog doesn't understand that eating this gross stuff will give him a tummy ache or a costly trip to the vet. You, as the owner, need to be vigilant and steer your dog away from these temptations. If you don't pay attention you could find your dog munching on someone's pile of vomit, and that would be disgusting.
Tip for the Day
Teach your dog the leave-it command. The leave-it command can be used for everything from garbage to dogs to people. It indicates to your dog that they should not be getting any closer to the item that is interesting him. Start with your dog on leash, and indoors. Put some hotdogs on a plate on the floor - out of reach of your dog. Tell your dog to heel and walk past the hotdogs. If your dog looks or tries to get the hotdogs, tell him 'leave-it' and give him a piece of cheese or other high value treat (while he is turned away from the hot dogs) Repeat several times a day for a few weeks and then go out and try it in the real world.
There is WAY too much gum and cigarettes on the sidewalk. I'm constantly stressed my dog is going to eat them (she does eat the cigs sometimes). Great blog and great tips! Thank you!
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