Dog has tissues issues

Dear Paw’s Corner: We have what the vet thinks is a part shepherd, around 3 years old. “Fred” is an abandoned dog that my husband rescued at a truck stop two years ago. The problem is that Fred eats tissues. If one is left anywhere he will devour it. We have tried placing a tissue over a mousetrap to get him to associate the trap going off with the tissue being a no-no, but he manages to remove it without springing the trap. We would appreciate any advice you have. — Arlene H., via e-mail

Dear Arlene: He’s a smart dog, that Fred! Unfortunately the quickest solution may be to hide all tissue boxes and not allow any stray tissues to be left out. Cover the trash cans throughout the house so that he can’t pluck any tissues out of those, either. You and your husband will have to be diligent about it.

The next option takes a bit longer. The trap didn’t work (alternatives include hanging around with a squirt gun or making an authoritative growling sound to deter negative behaviors). So you may have to look at Fred’s daily regimen, including how he acts during unsupervised time, and think of ways to change his routine — and perhaps his fixation on tissues.

One method may be to restrict where and when he can roam, and what is available for him to play with when unsupervised. Consider creating a room for Fred, outfitted with a cozy spot to lie down and one or two favorite toys. Regulate his feeding times and always put his food and water in the same spot. Give treats only during his obedience training sessions. Basically, get his mind off of tissues.

Pick up a book on training dogs using kennel cages (also called crates), a highly effective method when done properly. Meantime, hide the tissues.