Counter Surfing

If you’ve ever walked into your kitchen to find a mysteriously empty plate, a tipped-over pan, or the unmistakable sound of paws scrambling off the counter, congratulations—you’ve been visited by the elusive counter surfer.

For those unfamiliar with the term, “counter surfing” refers to when a dog helps themselves to anything on your counters. You think it’s a safe place to set that chicken on, and then your dog proves that their four fluffy legs will do anything for the yummy smells placed up high. 

So what do we do about counter surfing? Use positive reinforcement and treats to teach your dog the “leave it” command. As your dog is learning, it may be a good idea to keep your counters clear of food and yummy smells if possible. If your dog does get something off of the counter, avoid yelling or chasing as they may find this to be a fun game. It may be helpful to also teach your dog “place” or “stay” on a blanket or mat near the kitchen. By teaching them this, you can cook or place things on the counter while your dog stays nearby, but not close enough to reach. 

Counter surfing doesn’t mean your dog is misbehaving—it just shows they’re clever and following their instincts. With consistent training, a bit of patience, and some smart kitchen setup, you can put a stop to their countertop adventures!