A hungry dog can turn a family lunch into a funny stage. One moment, you think your food is safe, but the very next moment, it disappears. It is not something to worry about. Some dogs are more motivated to eat.
They climb furniture, sneak to the table, and steal snacks, but with an innocent charm. These family dogs can make you laugh, and meanwhile, make you think about how they outsmart you.
These dogs turn into crafty little thieves, going into “stealth mode” the instant a tempting treat is left unguarded. Whether it’s swiping a sandwich from the counter or snagging a cookie when no one’s looking, certain breeds are especially notorious for their sneaky skills.
ZME Science states that a study conducted by Dr. Juliane Kaminski of the University of Portsmouth’s Department of Psychology concluded that if owners prevent dogs from eating, there are 4 times higher chances that the dog will steal food when they get a chance.
In this article, we will talk about seven dog breeds that sneakily steal food from tables. So let’s dive in.
Dog Breeds That Sneakily Steal Food From Tables
1. Boxer
Boxers look imposing till the time their silly antics and expressive eyes reveal their true nature. Their playful and energetic disposition has earned them the title of “Peter Pan” of the dog world. The American Kennel Club calls them the best dog for kids.
Why do Boxers steal food? Well, the answer is quite simple. These dogs are naturally curious; therefore, if they see a plate or something tasty, they get attracted.
These dogs also have an innate desire to eat. Once they are finished with their bowl, their eyes turn towards the other bowl. Moreover, Boxers have high energy, so they need stimulation and after that, a lot of eating sessions.
Consideration
To discourage their overly eating habit, training is essential. Make a proper eating plan and keep them busy in different activities.
2. Great Dane
Great Dane is a German dog breed known for its towering height and big body. Zeus was the tallest Great Dane ever, as mentioned by the Guinness World Records.
This huge size makes them natural food seekers. Big body needs ample food, and if hunger is not satisfied, they will stand up and easily pick from your plate.
Puppy Great Dane develops at a rapid pace. This rapid development demands high-nutrition food in great quantity. That’s the reason young Great Danes eat more.
Moreover, activity level also impacts eating habits. If your dog is engaged in high physical activities, it will demand more food. So they will always be seeking something to eat.
Consideration
It is recommended to feed small meals throughout the day, instead of one big meal at a time.
3. Border Collie
Border Collies are the most intelligent dogs in the canine world. Stanley Coren placed this breed at the top position based on their sharp minds.
And Border Collies take full advantage of their intelligence. These dogs carefully observe human behavior and routine. These traits help them steal food if they are not given enough.
Britannica states that the Border Collie is a herding dog breed known for remarkable speed and agility. This makes them good at picking food from the table. Their quick reflexes make the act look like a magic trick.
Border Collies also use this food-stealing act to seek the attention of their owners. And for getting noticed, your dog will repeat this action again and again.
Consideration
Teach your dogs commands like “Leave it” and “Drop it” to discourage their stealing habits.
4. Beagle
Beagles are English scent hounds originally bred for tracking small game animals. These dogs have a happy-go-lucky spirit, and they are very loyal towards their families. This sweet pet is often good with kids and other pets.
These hunting dogs have a strong nose with approximately 220 million scent receptors. Therefore, these canines can pick even the finest scents. So if they see open cabinets with snacks, they will quickly grab them.
They also have a strong motivation for food. Beagles enjoy eating more compared to other breeds. This constant desire for food or meals instigates them to look for new opportunities.
Consideration
These dogs have a strong sense of smell, so it is better to hide snacks, chips, or other edibles.
5. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever, a British gundog, is very popular in America due to its gentle and patient temperament. These pups are very social and thrive on human companionship. Their intelligence and devotion towards families make them popular service dogs.
Now let’s talk about their food-stealing habit. Learned behaviors encourage dogs to pick up food. Once Labs successfully snatched something tasty, it became an act of reward. So, whenever they find any opportunity, they give their best to avail it.
Genetic predisposition also plays an important role. Hillspet mentions that Labs don’t realize when they are full. Wherever they find something to eat, they rush to it.
Consideration
Teach your Labradors different commands like, Leave it, Wait, Slow, All Done, Slow Down, to control their desire to eat.
6. Jack Russell Terrier
Call this breed a kangaroo of dogdom, the reason is their high jumping abilities. Jack Russells are capable of jumping 5 feet high. So what does this imply? Your counters, chairs, and even high shelves are not a safe zone for food if JRT is around.
These dogs are like a ball of energy, always looking here and there for action and excitement. So sneaking food is just a fun game for Jack Russells. For dogs that thrive on activity, even stealing food turns into another way of fun.
If Jack Russells are not given enough stimulation, they get into charge and find ways to keep themselves busy. So, picking up sandwiches from tables becomes a source of entertainment for these dogs.
Consideration
If you want to stop your dog from going after food, you have to remove temptations.
7. Dachshund
Doxies are also renowned food thieves, known for their hearty appetites. This love for food pushes them towards snacks. Whatever they feel is worth grabbing, they rarely hold back. Constant craving for food makes food stealing a tempting act.
Dachshunds also have a sharp sense of smell, as they were bred for hunting, so nothing can stay away from their sharp noses. Food aroma guides them all the way to the source.
These dogs are also stubborn and independent thinkers. So if they find anything worth eating, they will ignore your command and get to the food spot. Their curiosity also often ends up in stealing snacks.
Consideration
If your Doxies are not stopping for food heists, give them chew toys to redirect their habits.
Conclusion
The habit of stealing food usually comes from instincts like curiosity, a big appetite, or a need for stimulation. At times, it really looks funny when your dog suddenly jumps in and takes snacks from your plate.
However, dog breeds that sneakily steal food from tables remind us just how clever, determined, and mischievous our four-legged friends can be. While their food heists may test our patience, they also highlight their intelligence and resourcefulness.
With proper training, consistency, and a sense of humor, you can manage their antics in a positive direction while still appreciating the playful spark that makes them so lovable.
