He Stoops To Conker

Dogs are natural scavengers which, combined with puppies’ exploration of everything using their mouths can add up to nuisance and potential danger.

Much of the problem lies with human behaviour – dropping litter – and low levels of refuse collection. However, some of the hazards really are natural, albeit with human intervention behind them. Every season of the year produces dangers but autumn seems to have a plethora.

I was lucky in that my last two dogs weren’t food orientated and just didn’t scavenge. I can’t claim much credit for it, they just weren’t that interested. Travis could not be more different. From the very first in his new home with with me, Travis could not wait for dinner.

His scavenging has lessened with training but paper and tissues are still irresistible and now we have the added joy of autumn fruits. Horse chestnuts line pavements and proliferate in the parks and other green spaces here and are now shedding toxic conkers. There are plenty of oaks too and acorns can be just as toxic to dogs. So far, he has ignored the acorns but he finds the rolling, round conkers delightful and he’s not averse to chomping on the casings either, in spite of the spines. Both can cause gastrointestinal problems in dogs but often, it is obstruction that is more serious.

I am now altering my routes or crossing the road to avoid pavements strewn with conkers and acorns, not least because they are also slippery. I am also ensuring that Travis is kept occupied and always observed when off lead. Otherwise, it is a case of train, train, train – and wait for him to grow out of the habit of mouthing new objects.

Next week: The Cat Sat On The – Lawn

Meanwhile, if you need help with puppy mouthing or to train your dog not to scavenge, contact R+Dog Training or join us for a safe, supervised Puppy Social Walk or Adult Social Dog Walk in Chiswick House grounds.