Resource Guarding 

Resource guarding (trying to control what the animal determines as "valuable") can be experienced by many pet owners, leaving them feeling frustrated and nervous about the animal's behavior. 

"Resource guarding does not have anything to do with dominance. It is a common misconception that dogs show aggression or develop behavior problems because they do not understand their “place in the pack.” This misconception is problematic because it often leads to training using force and punishment to show the dog who is “top dog.” However, dominance in this sense has been scientifically debunked. Using force and punishment in a situation like resource guarding often makes the behavior problem worse and can cause your animal to fear you and damage your relationship. To successfully manage resource guarding, we must change the underlying motivation and emotion behind the behavior (anxiety, fear, frustration). Studies have shown that reward-based methods are more effective and humane when managing behavior problems such as resource guarding." (Zurlindin, 2021, VIN). 

Read more here: Resource Guarding in Dogs - VIN

Resource guarding can be frustrating, however, working alongside your veterinarian or licensed trainer educated in positive reinforcement many dogs can make improvements on their behavior around valuable resources. 

Tips to help with resource guarding: 

• Don't place your hand in the pet's food to "show them you can"
• Don't remove the pet's food while they are eating. Allow them to eat in peace.
• If you MUST interact with the pet's food, recall the dog and reward them with a valuable treat safely away from the food where the pet can't lunge at the adult, reinforce the "STAY" away from the food with valuable treats. Then, dismiss the dog back to their food and allow them to eat in peace. 
• Feed the pet away from other "threats" such as kids and other pets. Allow them to enjoy their meal without worry of it disappearing. 
• Work on "stay" in a specific "place" and reinforce with valuable treats. Kids should be taught to leave the dog alone around food, and boundaries need to be in place to help reinforce the safety for everyone. 
• Never leave children alone with the dog unattended. 
• Children should NEVER be in charge of feeding a dog with known resource guarding behavior. 

Always discuss any questions or concerns you may have regarding your pet's safety, behavior, and health. Seek the assistance of a knowledgeable trainer if needed.