There are a few commands that are a must and could potentially save your dog's life: come, leave it, and drop it. Some dogs can be easily set off if they are playing with a favorite toy or chewing a bone. Dogs may become possessive or start guarding items they view as valued resources. This could even be a human. As a reminder- dogs are sentient beings and will feed off of your emotions, so don't yell at or hit your dog. First, watch your dog as he is chewing or playing with a special toy. Does he look up and stiffen, growl, show teeth? If so, he is resource guarding and he may bite if you attempt to take it away. Toss some high value treats next to him and continue to where he has to leave his place to go get the treats. Do not rush in to grab his toy. If he appears calm, take a step closer. If he remains calm, mark the good behavior and toss another treat his way. You may try sitting on a stool a few feet away or the distance where he is not triggered into guarding behavior. Pull out a new or exciting toy and encourage him to come play with it. Engage in gentle tugging and then stop. If your dog releases the toy, mark the behavior with a "Yes!" and reward with a treat. On the third round of this add the words "drop it". Do not forcefully take away a toy or bone. Avoid the confrontation as that will increase his desire to guard it. Start the game of tug and then drop it with a toy your pup is less interested in and reward with a higher value toy or treat. This is a process, so take it slow. If at any time you feel as though your dog is not comfortable with you approaching from a distance, contact a certified behaviorist for help. Pictured is my dog, Prince. I got him when he was a little over 2 years and he was food aggressive and resource guarding. By desensitizing him slowly, by week two I was able to pet his face and touch the bone while he remained calm.
Comments