It is tough for most owners to resist the dog begging for food.
After all, who can say no to those "puppy dog eyes"? But think twice before you em"bark" on this tempting habit.
Remember Pavlov's dog? That's the one that was conditioned to get food every time a bell rang.
Pretty soon, the dog was salivating every time he heard the bell, even if no food was present.
The same thing will happen you your dog if you get in the habit of feeding him/her from your plate.
Next thing you know you'll have a frantic, drooling, whining canine on your hands every time you try to eat, and your dog will end up suffering for it.
Whenever you give in to your dog begging for food, you are boosting your pooch's caloric intake.
Think about this, if your dog is getting his regular meals PLUS any doggie treats you regularly give him PLUS a portion of your food, you will soon find yourself with an overweight dog.
This can lead to premature joint problems, breathing problems, heart problems, and more.
In addition, the canine digestive system in different from that of a human and feeding your dog people food can make him sick.
Sure, your dog may love your left-over french fries and you think that you are "loving" him or her by providing them, but if you truly love your dog, then you'll do what is necessary to keep him healthy.
Giving in to the dog begging for food will lead to a lifelong habit that will be very difficult to break.
Here are some general guidelines to put an end to the dog begging:

• Do not feed your dog from the table (make sure that the entire family is on the same page here).
  
• Ignore the dog begging for food.
  Instead, reward him/her with a dog treat after your meal.
  
• Do not allow the dog to jump on you or in your lap during mealtime
• Give your dog a bone or a toy filled with peanut butter while you eat.
  He'll be too interested in that to bother you while you eat.
  
• If possible, put the dog outside or in a different room when he starts to beg.
  This "time-out" type of response can be effective if utilized consistently.
  

Remember, you are not being mean when you refuse to give in to the dog begging for food.
Actually quite the opposite! You are helping the dog to live a happier and healthier life.