Why does my dog grab things and run? Here’s the Answer

How can I get stolen objects away from my dog?

You need to teach your dog a command that tells him not to touch an item, such as “leave it,” as well as commands to give up the object if it is stolen. Remember that training a successful drop command may prevent damage and possessive aggression but in no way does it stop stealing behavior. If your dog has stolen something that cannot be ignored and will not drop on command, then you may soon have a problem with possessive aggression (if it is not already a problem). If a leash and head halter have been left attached, it may be possible to gently remove the object while restraining the mouth. However, the head halter does not aid in opening the mouth and therefore does not give any assurances that items can be safely or effectively removed.

What Your Dog WantsWhen your dog steals something, she wants to take possession of the object for any number of reasons. She may want to play with it, because she views the object as a toy. Clothing, shoes and children’s toys are favorite items for canine kleptomaniacs. These dogs may enjoy

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What to Do if You Catch Your Dog Stealing

Your dog probably is faster than you are, so trying to reclaim stolen property by chasing likely won’t work. In fact, it might even teach your pup to grab stuff when he’s bored to get your attention. Though it feels counterintuitive, ignore your thieving dog if he takes a low-value item—provided he doesn’t try to destroy or swallow it.

Attention-seeking and catch-me-if-you-can dogs want you to chase them, so ignoring them takes the fun out of the game. Instead, exit the room. Your dog likely will drop the item and trot after you.

In circumstances where you must immediately retrieve an item, teaching your canine to trade or drop an object helps. An easy way to begin this dog training it is to incorporate the “drop it” cue into play. Try the steps below:

When your dog has a toy or ball in his mouth, place a treat in front of his nose. He’ll likely drop the toy to grab the treat.

As your dog opens his mouth, say the word “drop” as a command, and then give him the treat.

Repeat this step several times until your dog is dropping the item quickly, then try a repetition with the treat hidden in your pocket and ask your dog to “drop.”

Always give your dog a treat after he drops the item so he understands that dropping items, no matter what they are, is highly rewarding. Continue practicing with several temptations so your pup starts to generalize the behavior and eventually is able to relinquish valuable contraband.

If you haven’t had a chance to perfect your drop cue and your dog grabs something that you need to recover immediately, like medication or a paycheck, try an emergency trade. See below:

Run to the cupboard where you keep your dog’s food or to the refrigerator and take out treats or cheese in a crinkly wrapper.

Get down on your knees and place a few bites of food in the ground in front of you so your dog comes close.

He’ll likely drop the item to eat the food, at which point you can gently reclaim what he snagged.

While training your dog not to steal, it helps to also take measures to prevent your pooch from stealing in the first place.

How To Stop Your Dog From Grabbing Things! (Cesar’s Science)

Dogs don’t view property in the same way as we do and certain behaviours of theirs can lead to theft within your house.

Whether it’s cold food you’ve left on the kitchen worktop or dining room table, shoes, clothing or keys – dogs are known for stealing things. But why do they do it? And how can you stop them?

Dogs may steal items for a number of reasons including boredom, breeding or instinct. When a dog is bored it may try to attract your attention by stealing. Some breeds, especially those bred for hunting and retrieval, are more prone to stealing socks and other objects simply because it’s in their genes.

If you have a Labrador, Terrier or Retriever then you should train it with the aid of treats and other incentives. For example, if it brings you a toy then give it a treat but if it brings you a personal item then do not reward the behaviour. Turn your back and walk away to show the dog this is the wrong action without exhibiting any aggression.

Most breeds of dog respond well to training and you should start this process from the moment your pet is a puppy. Make sure that your dog always has a bowl of water to hand and eats at regular times too so that they get used to their routine quickly.

Getting plenty of daily exercise and enjoying outdoor and indoor play with toys can also help to prevent boredom and any associated stealing or destructive behaviour.

Browse our range of dog products to find toys that will help keep your dog occupied.