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Last week we looked at some of the situations that cause our dogs to pick up, and sometimes eat, a wide variety of items that really aren’t safe, writes animal behaviour expert Karen Wild.

Stones, keys, plastic toys, hearing aids… you name it, a dog will no doubt find it interesting.

Let’s look at some other ways to help your dog, and you, to conquer this risky habit.

Training is top priority! Call your dog away from things you don’t want them to have and reward them. Teach them to bring you items instead of running away. Build a solid down stay when they are in areas of risk. This takes time and most people don’t really want to spend that time, but it is a worthwhile option. Use good timing, skilled rewards, and no punishment. Ask a professional trainer (an ABTC registered Animal Training Instructor) to help.

Don’t be a bully! Ignore all nonsense about dominance, pack leader and being the boss. It’s not helpful, doesn’t work long term and often makes things a lot worse. Anyone that suggests that doesn’t know much about dogs.

Reward other activities and reactions that are more self-enriching so that it doesn’t hinge on your response. Your dog can spend many happy moments foraging in a box for hidden treats or toys, or get yourself some strong treat delivery items such as Kong Wobblers.

Amass other things in the garden for your dog to bring in for a much greater reinforcement. Boring old stones suddenly aren’t worth the effort any more! Build a digging pit with buried items such as their toys and chews.

Keep a rotation of items in a separate box so you aren’t putting the same ones out all the time. Some people use play sand which is less messy (make sure your dog isn’t going to eat the sand of course). Place inexpensive slabs all around to just sweep it back in, or look for an old plastic paddling pool with a lid to protect it from the worst weather.

Block access to specific areas. Plastic-coated chicken wire, green in colour, look reasonable!

Fence off a hardstanding e.g. patio from the rest of the garden. At times where you can’t teach or supervise, you can allow your dog time outside doing all the other things you prefer. This also stops the lawn getting squashed flat over winter.

Exchange the item for something else (teach them to ‘Give’ - you can get the handout from my website karenwildpets.com). There are ways to fade out this attention reward that are more gradual and that don’t trigger frustration.

Teach your dog to fetch the items to you. Only do this once they are in your dog’s mouth, don’t deliberately try and get them to fetch stones! Use toys, and get a solid retrieve first. Always swap the item for something better, like food or another toy.