A shoe near the door is easy to reach, smells like you and starts a chase when you notice it. Pulling it from a dog's mouth can turn the moment into tug or a guarding conflict. Put shoes behind a closed door or up high before the next busy morning. Prevention is easier than racing after a stolen one.

If the shoe is already in their mouth, check whether they have torn off a piece or may swallow laces, leather or another part. Call your vet if a piece has been swallowed or your dog seems unwell. If they stiffen, growl or threaten a bite when approached, do not grab. Give space and ask a qualified reward-based behavior professional for a safe plan. A shoe is not worth a hand injury.

For a dog who stays relaxed, offer a suitable toy or a safe trade away from the shoe. Reward letting go, then put the shoe out of reach. At a separate calm time, practise giving up a low-value toy and getting it back when safe. This teaches a choice without making you chase. The resource-guarding guide can help if your dog guards what they take, but do not use a general trade drill to test a biting risk.

Today, make one shoe-free entryway and keep an approved chew or toy handy. A shoe your dog never gets to steal is a quiet success.

Sources: Dogs Trust on preventing stealing and avoiding punishment. Dogs Trust on resource guarding and keeping people safe.