It’s not mischief—it’s instinct. Let’s manage it.

Many dogs—especially hounds—are hardwired to sniff out food and go after it. A plate of leftovers on the counter or a pizza box in the trash? To them, it’s a buffet. This behavior is especially common in rescue dogs who’ve known hunger, competition, or neglect. It’s not about being “bad”—it’s about survival. But with structure, consistency, and enrichment, these habits can be managed effectively.

Dogs counter surf or dig through the trash for a few common reasons. First, it’s instinct—many have learned that when food shows up, they have to grab it fast. Others are bored or under-stimulated and looking for something to do. If they’ve been rewarded even once (intentionally or not), they’ll keep trying. And if they don’t have appropriate outlets—like toys, chews, or food puzzles—they’ll find their own entertainment.

To manage this behavior, start with the environment. Keep counters clear and food pushed to the back. Use covered trash cans or keep them behind closed doors. When you’re not able to supervise, block access to tempting areas using baby gates, crates, or closed rooms. Don’t leave dogs alone in the kitchen if they’re known surfers.

Next, give them something better to do. 

Enrichment tools like frozen Kongs, snuffle mats, and puzzle feeders can redirect their food-seeking instincts into safe, productive activities. Scatter meals in the yard or use toys that make them work for their food. Training is also important—teaching a solid “leave it” or “off” command using positive reinforcement helps them learn to walk away from temptation.

Above all, be consistent. Don’t let them lick plates one day and then correct them the next. Mixed signals make it harder for them to learn. And remember: never punish after the fact—they won’t understand. Avoid scary deterrents, which can create anxiety or fear-based behavior.

Counter surfing and trash digging may be frustrating, but they’re rooted in survival, not disobedience. With patience and the right tools, you can curb the chaos—without crushing your dog’s spirit.