Dogs may eat behind their owners’ backs because they feel that food is a resource and they want to protect their food from being taken away by other animals or people. This is a natural instinct, and dogs may view their owners as potential competitors and eat food behind their owners' backs that can help them protect themselves. In addition, some dogs may have the habit of protecting their food because of their experience of hunger or competing for food in a competitive environment.
However, for pet dogs, this behavior is usually unnecessary because their owners regularly Provide them with plenty of food and water. Therefore, if a dog eats behind its owner's back, the owner can help the dog overcome this behavior by cultivating the dog's trust and sharing food boldly.