Stop Counter-Surfing: Simple Strategies & The High-Value Rewards That Work

There is nothing quite as frustrating as turning your back for a second only to find your sandwich has vanished or your roast chicken has been "pre-tasted" by the dog. Counter-surfing is a self-rewarding behaviour—the dog gets a delicious prize every time they succeed, which makes it a tough habit to break.

At Bonza Dog Treats, we know that behaviour modification works best when you combine management with high-value motivation. Here is how to keep your counters clear and your dog’s paws on the floor.

🔍 Why Do Dogs Counter-Surf?

To a dog, your kitchen bench is essentially a giant, eye-level buffet. Dogs are natural scavengers, and the reward of a stray crumb or a sandwich (or your lunch!) is often much more exciting than anything in their bowl. Because the reward is immediate, the behaviour is reinforced instantly.

🚫 Step 1: Management (Remove the Opportunity)

The first rule of training is to stop the dog from practicing the "bad" behaviour. If they can’t get a reward from the counter, they will eventually stop looking there.

• Clear the Decks: Never leave food unattended on the edges of benches.
• Use Barriers: Use baby gates or keep the dog in another room while you are prepping food.
• Clean Thoroughly: Even a tiny smear of grease is enough to keep a dog interested in checking the bench later.

✅ Step 2: The "Four on the Floor" Rule

Instead of just telling your dog "No," you need to tell them what you want them to do. We want to reward them for having all four paws on the floor in the kitchen.

The Training Routine

Keep a pouch of small, high-value training treats handy. When you are in the kitchen and your dog is standing nearby with all four paws on the ground, "mark" the behaviour (with a clicker or a "Yes!") and toss a treat on the floor. You are teaching them that the floor is where the rewards happen—not the bench.

💡 Step 3: Use High-Value Distractions

If you need your dog out of the way while you cook, give them something better to do. A bored dog is a scavenging dog. This is the perfect time for a long-lasting chew that keeps their brain and mouth occupied elsewhere.

✅ The Best Rewards for Success

For counter-surfing, you need treats that are more enticing than what’s on the bench. Our single-protein, 100% Aussie treats are perfect for high-distraction training.

Common Questions: Counter-Surfing

Should I punish my dog for jumping up?
Physical punishment usually just teaches the dog to wait until you leave the room. Focus on rewarding the "paws on floor" behaviour and removing the temptation instead.

How long does it take to stop?
If you are consistent with management (no food on benches) and rewards, you will see a significant change in 2-3 weeks.