Resource Guarding in Dogs
Contributed by Angie Lewis, President of Alaska Animal Advocates
Resource guarding is when a dog perceives a threat to a favored item or food in their possession. The type of resource guarding that I am referring to is exhibited by a dog to another dog. The dog feels a threat to his possession and reacts aggressively to eliminate that threat by exhibiting aggressive behaviors. These possessions could include food or treats, toys, a favorite place in the house, or a beloved human. These types of behaviors can sometimes appear quite suddenly, without apparent cause.
The behaviors exhibited by the dog can include barking, growling, lunging, snapping, or biting. A dog will typically utilize more subtle communication strategies to let the “offending” dog know that he is stressed by the presence of the other dog. These behaviors could include sitting very still, staring at the other dog, or using vocalizations to warn the other dog.
Resource guarding becomes more of a problem in a multi-pet household. Prevention is the simplest way to deal with these sorts of problems. This requires a great deal of management strategies to maintain safety and sanity. It would be wise to feed in separate areas, put away all toys, and restrict access to favorite areas of the house.
Finding a good behavior therapist to teach you and your dog to deal with resource guarding; and to learn how to counter condition these negative behaviors. There are also many good videos online that actually show you how to do this training. It can take quite some time to accomplish but is well worth the effort. Most of these techniques involve allowing the aggressive dog to have a, non-favorite toy or chewie, and have them restrained comfortably or muzzled. Then walk by with another mellow dog, on a leash, and give the aggressor a treat whenever he doesn’t react negatively to the other dog. Of course, the other dog deserves a treat as well. Then you up the anti and use a more desirable item and allow for the other dog to walk closer. This is much easier to see than it is to try and explain it.
If your dog demonstrates resource guarding behaviors, DO NOT PUNISH HIM. Remember, a growl is a preferable behavior, rather than a bite. A growl is an important form of communication. If this is punished, next time the dog may eliminate the growl, and go straight to the bite! Work with your dog and a dog trainer to mold the negative behavior into an acceptable behavior. Also, give your dog as much exercise as possible, especially for younger dogs. A tired dog is a good dog!