In fact, training dogs not to eat food that strangers throw to them may seem simple by the methods explained below, but the key is whether the owner can persist in this behavior long-term. People often love lively and cute puppies, and it is common to feed them some snacks by the way. However, for hygiene and safety reasons, it is necessary to teach dogs to refuse food from strangers.

　　Training method:

　　First, the owner invites friends to help feed the dog. When the dog tries to eat, the owner uses the above method to stop the dog, and as soon as the dog stops eating, encourage it immediately.

　　If the dog can refuse food from strangers in the owner’s presence, further refusal training can be carried out. The owner hides so the dog cannot see them, while using a long leash to tie the dog. Then a friend is invited to feed the dog. If the dog attempts to eat, the owner shouts “No, can’t!” and sharply pulls the leash to stop the dog.

　　Owner’s notes:

　　Refusal training without the owner present should be done consecutively 2–3 times per session. If the dog refuses to eat, the stranger should leave immediately, and the owner should come out of hiding to praise the dog.

　　The owner can choose several friends to help with training. If only one friend always helps, the dog may think that only that person’s food is forbidden, which will not achieve the purpose of refusal training.

　　Refusing food is a relatively difficult training that requires a long time to consolidate the effect. At the same time, the training’s success depends greatly on the dog’s temperament. For dogs with a very strong food drive, refusal training usually takes longer, and the owner must invest more effort. However, for the dog’s health, training must be persisted with—steady effort will turn an iron pestle into a needle.