Addressing Resource Guarding in Dogs: Understanding the Behavior and Implementing Solutions

💡Resource guarding is a common behavior in dogs, characterized by defensive aggression towards people or other animals who approach their valued resources.

📒By journaling and tracking the triggers and behaviors associated with resource guarding, you can gain a better understanding of the issue and develop an effective plan for management.

🗑️Identifying and removing the triggers that elicit resource guarding behavior is crucial. This can involve removing or managing access to certain resources to reduce the dog's need to guard them.

🔑Training go-to behaviors like 'Hot Zone', 'ItsYerChoice', and recall can help redirect the dog's focus and provide alternative responses to resource guarding situations.

🥇Ranking reinforcers based on value helps in rewarding desired behaviors and managing resource guarding effectively. Middle-of-the-road food can be used to avoid excessive guarding.

Is resource guarding a common behavior in dogs?

—Yes, resource guarding is a common behavior in dogs, and it can manifest as defensive aggression towards people or other animals who approach their valued resources.

What should I do if my dog displays resource guarding behavior?

—If your dog displays resource guarding behavior, it's important to address it proactively. Identify triggers, create a safe environment, and train go-to behaviors to redirect their focus and manage the behavior effectively.

Can resource guarding be completely eliminated in dogs?

—While resource guarding can be managed and improved through proper training and management techniques, it may not be completely eliminated, as it is a natural instinct in dogs. The goal is to minimize or redirect the behavior to ensure a safe and harmonious environment.

Should I discipline my dog for resource guarding?

—No, disciplining a dog for resource guarding can escalate the aggression and create a negative association. It's best to seek guidance from a certified veterinarian behaviorist to address the behavior in a safe and effective manner.

How long does it take to address resource guarding behavior in dogs?

—The timeline for addressing resource guarding behavior in dogs varies depending on the individual dog and the severity of the behavior. It can take weeks to months of consistent training and management to see significant improvement.

00:10Resource guarding in dogs is a common behavior characterized by defensive aggression towards those who approach their valued resources.

02:46Identifying and removing triggers that elicit resource guarding behavior is crucial to manage the issue effectively.

05:32Training go-to behaviors like 'Hot Zone', 'ItsYerChoice', and recall can help redirect the dog's focus during resource guarding situations.

09:12Ranking reinforcers based on value can aid in managing resource guarding. Using middle-of-the-road food can avoid excessive guarding.

14:55Journaling and tracking the triggers and behaviors associated with resource guarding can provide insights and help develop an effective management plan.