Resource guarding is a common issue where dogs display possessive or defensive behaviour over specific items like food, toys, or their favourite spot on the couch.

While this behaviour can be frustrating and potentially dangerous, it is crucial to understand that dogs are naturally inclined to guard what they want. It is a natural instinct, similar to humans.

If you've ever encountered resource guarding in your beloved pup, rest assured you're not alone. Many dog owners face this challenge, but worry not, as we're here to help you.

Keep reading!

Understanding Resource Guarding Behaviour

Resource guarding—a behaviour commonly observed in our dogs—is a challenging aspect of canine behaviour. When a dog engages in resource guarding, they exhibit possessive or defensive behaviour over certain items, such as food, toys, or even their cosy spot on the couch.

Let's further understand resource guarding – its origin, signs, and triggers.

The Origins of Resource Guarding

Resource guarding in dogs can be the reason behind several factors, each contributing to the development and manifestation of this behavior. Understanding these origins can help us address resource guarding more effectively. Here are some key factors:

Survival Instincts: Resource guarding behaviour stems from the instinct to protect and defend what a dog considers valuable. Dogs have an innate drive to safeguard their resources, such as food and a safe resting place, which ensures their well-being and safety.
Anxiety: An anxious dog may exhibit resource guarding as a coping mechanism to alleviate internal distress. They perceive the presence of others as a threat and engage in resource-guarding behaviours to self-soothe or maintain control in an uncertain environment.
Past Experiences: Dogs that have endured neglect or abuse in their previous homes can develop resource guarding as a way to maintain control and security. Past traumatic experiences can leave emotional scars and heighten anxiety, leading to a deep-seated need to protect their resources.
Training Methods: Unfortunately, certain training methods can inadvertently contribute to developing or escalating resource guarding. Mistaken attempts to establish dominance by forcibly taking away food or toys can create negative associations and trigger defensive reactions in dogs.

Recognising the Signs

Detecting the signs of resource guarding is essential in early intervention. Dogs may display various behaviours to protect their coveted possessions, such as growling, snarling, snapping, or even biting. More subtle signs can include stiffening, freezing, or quick food gulping.

Triggers for Resource Guarding

Dogs may guard resources in response to:

perceived threats
competition
a sense of scarcity

Identifying these triggers allows us to implement tailored training techniques and create a safe and secure environment for our four-legged companions.

Reasons Why Resource Guarding Should be Approached with Positive Reinforcement

Resource-guarding behaviour in dogs can be challenging and worrisome for dog owners. However, approaching resource guarding with positive reinforcement has several important benefits.

Here are a few key reasons why positive reinforcement is the ideal approach:

Building Trust: Positive reinforcement builds trust between you and your dog. By rewarding desired behaviours, such as sharing or relinquishing resources, you establish a positive association and reinforce your dog's trust in you as a fair and reliable provider.
Strengthening the Bond: Positive reinforcement training enhances the bond between you and your dog. When your dog associates you with positive experiences and rewards, they are more likely to willingly share resources and engage in cooperative behaviour. This strengthens your relationship and fosters a deeper connection.
Empowering Choice: Positive reinforcement empowers your dog to make the right choices. Rather than using force or punishment, positive reinforcement focuses on encouraging and rewarding desired behaviours. By allowing your dog to make positive choices, you empower them to overcome resource-guarding behaviour on their own terms.
Reducing Fear and Anxiety: Approaching resource guarding with positive reinforcement helps reduce fear and anxiety in your dog. Punitive methods can escalate fear-based responses and worsen guarding behaviour.
On the other hand, positive reinforcement builds confidence and creates a positive association with resources, decreasing guarding tendencies.
Long-Term Behavior Modification: Positive reinforcement training facilitates long-term behaviour modification. By consistently rewarding sharing and non-guarding behaviours, you are actively shaping your dog's behaviour and encouraging them to make these behaviours a habit. Over time, resource-guarding tendencies can diminish, leading to a more harmonious and relaxed environment.

3 Gentle Methods to Address Resource Guarding

Resource-guarding behaviour in dogs can pose challenges in our relationships with them. However, we can tackle this issue with a gentle approach that prioritises positive reinforcement.

Let's explore some effective techniques that will address resource guarding and strengthen the bond between us and our companions.

1. "Leave It" Command

Teaching a solid "leave it" command is powerful in addressing resource guarding. Start by practising with low-value items and gradually progress to higher-value ones.

Remember to shower your dog with praise and rewards when they voluntarily release the item, showing them that sharing leads to positive experiences.

2. Systematic Desensitisation

Systematic desensitisation involves gradually exposing your dog to the stimuli that trigger resource guarding while creating positive associations. Start by presenting the trigger at a distance that doesn't provoke guarding behaviour, and reward your dog for calm and relaxed behaviour. Slowly decrease the distance over time, always ensuring your dog feels safe and comfortable.

3. Food-Based Counter-Conditioning: Changing Perspectives

Food-based counter-conditioning is like flipping a switch in your dog's mind. It involves associating the presence of trigger items with high-value rewards. Whenever your dog encounters a trigger, such as someone approaching their food bowl, toss a delicious treat nearby. This helps them learn that the approach of people or other animals results in good things happening.

Remember – Patience, Consistency, and Persistence is the Key

When it comes to addressing resource-guarding behaviour in our dogs, there's one vital mantra to keep in mind: patience, consistency, and persistence. Modifying this instinctual behaviour takes time and effort, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Patience is crucial as we embark on this journey. Understand that change won't happen overnight. Each dog is unique, and progress will happen at its own pace. Stay calm and patient, providing a supportive and nurturing environment.

Consistency is the backbone of effective training. Be consistent in applying the gentle methods you've chosen. Use the same cues, rewards, and techniques consistently to help your dog understand what is expected of them. Consistency helps build trust and clarity.

Persistence is key when faced with challenges along the way. There may be setbacks or moments of frustration, but don't give up. Keep reinforcing positive behaviours and practising the training techniques. Consistent and persistent efforts will yield results.

Remember, your dog is learning and adapting to new behaviours. They rely on your guidance and support. Embodying patience, consistency, and persistence will provide the stability and reassurance needed for successful behaviour modification.

Conclusion

Addressing resource-guarding behaviour in dogs with gentle methods and positive reinforcement is effective and essential for building a strong and trusting bond. By focusing on rewarding desired behaviours, we can help our dogs develop a positive association with sharing and relinquishing resources.

Remember, achieving lasting results takes time, patience, consistency, and persistence.

Positive reinforcement training can unlock our dog's potential to overcome resource-guarding tendencies and foster a deep sense of trust and cooperation. As we navigate this process, let's remember to approach it with kindness, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to our canine friends.