How to stop your dog resource guarding food and toys
Find out why dogs protect items they value and discover how to stop this behaviour from developing
Just like us, dogs can become worried if they feel that something they value might be taken away from them. This worry can sometimes lead to guarding behaviour, which is a dog’s way of trying to keep their precious item safe.
Why do dogs guard?
The main reason for guarding is fear of losing valuable items. Taking things away from your dog as punishment or telling them off for guarding is likely to increase their anxiety about losing things. They may become even more worried and feel the need to protect those valuable things even more.
How do I know if my dog guards things?
Guarding behaviour can include:
- standing over an item they value, with a very stiff and still posture
- lowering their body posture if anyone approaches the item
- running away with the item
- hiding the item
- eating their food or treat very quickly (if that’s what they’re guarding)
- growling or showing aggressive behaviour to protect the item
What should you do if you see these behaviours?
If your dog shows guarding behaviours, leave them well alone when they are enjoying food or playing with toys by themselves. Contact our Behaviour Support Line for free expert advice or ask your vet to refer you to a qualified behaviourist for individual support.
Contact our Behaviour Support Line
Need help with your dog’s training or behaviour? Contact our Behaviour Support Line for free expert advice.
Call us on 03030036666
or
If you feel you need to give us a call, our free telephone service is open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am – 5pm.
How to prevent resource guarding
The best way to prevent dogs from resource guarding is to teach them from the start that there is no need to worry about losing anything they find valuable. This is a very important lesson and means they can always relax and enjoy the things they love without having to worry. Watch our video and follow the steps below.
Always swap the dog's item for something else
Being consistent and always swapping items will help dogs learn to share without being worried.
If you need to take something from your dog, swap it for something else that your dog considers to be equally or even more valuable. Offer your dog the better item before trying to take what they have away.
You could drop several treats on the ground near your dog, so they have to leave the item to go and eat them. Then you can calmly pick up the item while they’re enjoying themselves.
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