Addressing Resource Guarding

Resource guarding is one of the more common issues I help clients address. It is a normal dog behavior. In fact, an estimated 15–20% of pet dogs resource guard. Perfectly sweet, obedient, and well-bred dogs resource guard. When we are enjoying the company of our furry pals, it is easy to forget that over 80% of the world's dogs are free-ranging scavengers. Securing and protecting resources is a part of their DNA.

Most of these cases involve communication (growling) rather than a bite. Nevertheless, it is important to recognize and address resource guarding as soon as possible. Most dogs will guard food bowls or chews, while a far smaller percentage guard space or owners. If you observe your dog beginning to resource guard - look for freezing, "whale eyes," body blocking, and/or rapid ingestion- here are the steps you should take, ideally alongside a qualified professional who specializes in behavioral issues.

Management

Management is admittedly boring and can be a tough sell as a dog behaviorist and trainer. However, it is a critical practice when it comes to addressing resource guarding. Simple and effective rules include:

• Give dogs their own space to eat and leave them alone.

• Carefully manage all objects so that your dog can only access them at planned times. In other words, it is your ball, not your dog's ball.

• Do not reach for anything in your dog’s "ownership zone" (in his mouth or between his front legs).

• Play (tug and fetch) with two equal-value toys.

• Use extreme supervision around children and strangers.

Training

Below is a list of the minimal exercises you should work on if your dog resource guards:

• Out: Dropping the object from the dog's mouth.

• Leave it: Disengaging from the desired object.

• Place or "Go to mat": Any exercise that asks your dog to leave the desired object is helpful.

• Come! Calling your dog to you can solve so many problems.

• Sit or Down: Encourage your dog to do something else.

Desensitization

Most human-directed resource guarding should include desensitizing the human's presence around resources and counter-conditioning the direct approach. Dogs should always feel that it is in their best interest to drop a resource or leave it on command. Simply walk by your dog when he has a toy and drop a piece of chicken. Show them that there is no need to guard.

Like most work with dogs, this work is simple, but not easy. If a dog has been punished for resource guarding, he or she may skip steps in the aggression cycle and go straight to the bite. This is difficult work and requires the help of a professional. Even as you learn more about how to effectively address resource guarding with your canine coach, always wear protective gear, including gloves and layered clothing.

Remember, this is a natural dog behavior, particularly for dogs bred to guard or hunt. A dog who resource guards can be a perfectly sound and wonderful pup. They just need a little extra management, training, and support!