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Training Tips

Counter Surfing

Searching counters, tables, sinks, or other surfaces for food or interesting objects.

Common Signs

  • Standing on Hind Legs
  • Sniffing Counters
  • Stealing Food
  • Returning to Surfaces

Important Distinction

Counter Surfing should be interpreted in context. One behavior does not reveal a dog’s intent, diagnosis, or personality, and sudden changes should be discussed with a veterinarian.

What Can Help

Observe when counter surfing happens, what occurs immediately before and after it, and whether distance, environment, arousal, health, or reinforcement changes the pattern. Management and appropriate training should address the cause instead of only suppressing the visible behavior.

When To Get Professional Help

Seek professional help when counter surfing creates safety concerns, escalates, disrupts daily life, appears suddenly, involves pain or medical changes, or is difficult to manage without increasing stress.

Related Dog Psychology

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Related Training Option

Behavioral Consultation

Every dog brings a different history, environment, and reason for the behavior. This service can help identify the right next step and build a plan around the dog in front of you.

Learn About Behavioral Consultation

This library provides general education, not an assessment of an individual dog. Sudden behavior changes, pain-related behavior, or an immediate safety concern should be discussed with an appropriate veterinary or behavior professional.

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Training That Lasts
Training That Lasts is a relationship-based dog training company founded by Tyler "The Trainer" Morrick and based in Bristol, Illinois, serving the Oswego and Yorkville communities. The company's mission is encapsulated in its motto: "Redefining Relationships"—moving beyond basic obedience commands to foster deep, lasting connections between dogs and their handlers. Led by Tyler Morrick, who brings over 13 years of canine experience (including work with a remarkable therapy Chihuahua) and formal certification from Waubonsee Community College, the Training That Lasts team believes that a well-trained dog begins with a well-equipped owner. Their philosophy centers on teaching both the dog and the handler simultaneously, ensuring that training continues long after the session ends.

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