If your dog gives you a pleading look or begins to whine while you're at the table eating, it can be hard not to give in. But consistency is very important. If you feed your dog from the table every now and then, you are effectively rewarding this behaviour and making things harder for both of you in the long run. Consequently, if you want to eat in peace, you should wait until you have finished your meal before feeding your dog. This will also reinforce the natural hierarchy and dissuade your dog from taking further liberties.As a dog owner, you certainly mustn't feel guilty about this – quite the opposite, in fact. A dog needs clear boundaries that reinforce its place in the pack, i.e. in the family. And besides, food from your plate will most likely be unsuitable for your four-legged friend. Spices and fatty, sweet foods can't be tolerated by dogs and can make them very ill. Chocolate, grapes and onions are all toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities. Dogs can't stomach raisins, raw beans, avocado, garlic or raw potatoes either. For this reason, a species-appropriate diet is crucial.