Some dogs are naturally good at saying no; others have to learn the hard way. This behavior is very important for a dog’s survival, as strangers sometimes offer treats that cause food poisoning. Guard dogs do it best as they are only loyal to their owners and wary of strangers.
Refusing to accept food from strangers is actually a sign of good training and discipline. For working breed dogs, this instinct must be honed to stay focused on the task at hand. Refusing to take food or eating from the hands of strangers keeps dogs healthier, safer, and well-mannered.
In this article, we’ve narrowed down our top 7 picks for dogs that don’t take food from strangers because of their nature and training. Owners of these breeds don’t need to worry about the risk of their dog being food poisoned or trusting the wrong people.
Dog Breeds That Do Not Accept Food From Strangers
1. Chow Chow
Chow Chows originated from China but later spread to Europe and the US. According to the Chow Chow Club, this dog is one of the oldest breeds in the dog world. Chow Chows are independent and aloof dogs.
Due to their natural disposition, they are less likely to trust most people. Even as a puppy, they protect their house and themselves from unknown people.
Behavior
Although it seems like the best dog for cuddles and snuggles, these dogs prefer that you respect their private space.
They are aloof and wary of strangers. They aren’t recommended pets for first-time pet parents as they are independent and strong-willed.
Although they are food enthusiasts, they are confident and loyal to only their trainer. Therefore, they are focused on only taking treats given by their trainers. Otherwise, they’ll leave any other food/treats on the floor.
2. Cane Corso
Also known as the Italian Mastiff, this dog is large-sized and has a strong, muscular build. It was originally bred as a working breed, serving as guard dogs, farm hands, and soldiers.
They have a natural tendency to protect what’s theirs. Strangers and unknown people should keep a distance as these dogs prefer safety over a filled stomach. Even if you’re offering their favorite treat, a Cane Corso will remain aloof.
Other Behaviors
They are reserved with strangers and do not take treats from them. However, with their own families, they are quite loving and devoted.
They are not suitable for first-time parents but are better suited for trained pet owners or families.
3. Doberman Pinscher
Originally bred as a guard dog, Dobermans are still used today in police or military work. As it is stated by Britannica, they are a result of breeding between German Pinschers, Italian Greyhounds, and Dachshunds.
Dobermans are loyal only to their owners. Due to genetics and their working history, they do not trust or warm up to strangers easily. They can easily be trained to refuse food from anyone other than their primary caregivers.
Other Behaviors
They are very intelligent and highly trained. It is wary of strangers. Even if someone offers them carrots or berries, a Doberman will not accept food of any kind from strangers.
They are fearless and alert dogs. They love swimming, running, jumping, and completing agility courses. If it has reason to suspect a stranger, it will chase after it!
4. Akita
A Japanese dog breed, the Akita is a hunting dog that is very loyal and an independent worker. The famous story of this breed revolves around an Akita dog that waited around the same station for 9 years in hopes of reuniting with its pet parents, who had died, as noted by Nerd Nomads.
Other Behaviors
They need to be trained at an early age. Experienced parents are better suited for raising an Akita dog as they are reserved around people they don’t know. Therefore, they do not accept food from strangers even if it is their favorite treat.
Due to their prey drive, they have a tendency to chase after cats or other small animals.
They are very selective and do not get along with just anyone. Refusing food from strangers is just a side habit.
5. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are highly energetic, working dogs that were famous for their work in the military, police, and search and rescue, according to PetMD. This large-sized dog requires proper grooming and nutrition. A bowl of treats and daily exercise usually keep them focused and happy.
German Shepherds are usually wary of strangers because of the work that they do. As they are excellent guard dogs as well, even their favorite treat offered by a stranger will not be accepted.
Other Behaviors
Guess what? As police/ military dogs, they are wary of strangers and would never accept food from them. They eat only the food that is given by their trainers.
Their favorite food is meat, and do not give them chocolate even if they show interest. Chocolate is toxic to dogs.
6. Chihuahua
Probably iconic due to Paris Hilton’s social media posts, a Chihuahua is a small-sized/ toy breed. They are also prone to obesity, so it’s important that they eat well and exercise. Strangers offering any kind of treat or even meat will not be appreciated.
Chihuahuas are extremely cautious and careful dogs, as stated by WebMD. Although they bond closely with their owners, other people are often seen as threats. They do not trust others easily, often refusing their favorite treats if it’s in the hands of an unfamiliar person.
Other Behaviors
This small puppy does not fear strangers or other animals. It will loudly bark if it has reason to worry about its owner’s safety.
These confident, tiny pooches are excellent lapdogs. They like to eat peanut butter baked treats.
7. Basenji
Not something that comes up in daily discussions or posts, a Basenji is an ancient dog breed from Africa. These dogs were hunting companions, although they are small. They like to eat vegetables, berries, and protein. However, when offered by a stranger, they will reject such food.
Other Behaviors
Kind of like a cat, these dogs like to explore on their own and are very independent.
Even if they’re in the house, you won’t notice them worrying about your attention.
If confronted with a new person, they will start barking at it.
Conclusion
Giving or accepting food from strangers is a problem. Although new dog parents might not understand and assume that their dog lacks manners, the truth is that their pooches could get poisoned.
Forums’ top contributors have said that food like chocolates, hot sauce, or related treats gives them stomach aches. Although we have seen in movies that people are encouraging their dogs to accept food from strangers, it isn’t safe to do so. Neither is consuming any food that has been thrown on the floor.
This article has contributed to the discussion of worry and fear about what their dog should or should not eat. Remember that strangers might not always be bad people, but they don’t know what food is safe for a particular dog.
