Resource
guarding
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It is natural for dogs to guard high value food, toys, or areas they perceive as rare and valuable. Resource guarding is actually a tendency that can be triggered in any dog, but it is genetic how closely to the surface it sits. The more competition over resources your dog feels, the more likely they are to begin resource guarding. However, some dogs will naturally show resource aggression even with very little competition over their resources. Regardless, it is critically important to step in with resource guarding training before the behavior progresses.
resource guarding dog training
Resource guarding can be triggered in any dog under the right circumstances. So, the first step is always to permanently eliminate competition over resources with your dog and between your dogs. Feed your dog in a private space like their crate, and leave them alone until they have left the area. Always give high value treats and chews in a private space, with a plan for taking chews away safely.
Nonetheless, you cannot avoid every situation that will trigger resource guarding. If your dog is guarding food, toys, or parts of the house, we teach an “out” command (drop it and move away from it). Use the out command to safely move your dog away from something they have accidentally gotten ahold of.
resource guarding a favorite human
On the other hand, some dogs are resource guarding their favorite human being, often on walks or when guests come into the house. This is a sign of an unbalanced relationship between the dog and owner, as the dog has misinterpreted the hierarchy. Once you’ve established respect and a natural bond, not only will your dog’s resource guarding behavior resolve, but your dog will be happier in their day to day life. What you are seeing from your dog is likely to be uncertainty and instability due to a lack of leadership.
In these resource guarding dog training programs, we will focus more on communication, boundaries, and obedience. Your dog shouldn’t feel like you are their possession; they should be able to relax and have fun with you! This is more than possible through clear communication and calm but strict obedience expectations.
our trainers and techniques
We utilize all 4 quadrants of Operant Conditioning Theory. For a detailed view of what that looks like, visit our training methods page.
Resource guarding is a common problem across households, and all of our dog trainers are more than experienced helping families resolve it. To highlight a couple of our certified trainers: Learn more about our Aggression Expert Juliet Ortiz in Denver, CO, or our Degreed & Certified Behaviorist Ashley Blackburn in Austin, TX.
Begin your resource guarding training journey by scheduling a free phone consultation with our Head Trainer Mara Soo.
