Even though today’s dogs have been thoroughly domesticated, behavioral instincts can often rise to the surface. One of the most common instinctual behaviors is known as resource guarding.
Ancestrally, dogs are predators, and they are essentially “pre-programmed” to guard resources which were at one time crucial to their survival. This behavior has remained ingrained in canines to varying degrees, and causes many dogs to try to control access to things which are important to him. While food is the most common object of their attention, your dog may also guard a preferred toy, a favorite chair, or even you and your family.
Resource guarding dogs will utilize defensive body position or act aggressively in order to keep everyone away from the object of his affection.
3 Facts about Resource Guarding
Resource Guarders are Insecure
Generally speaking, a dog engaged in resource guarding behavior is deeply insecure and has a limited ability to cope well in a social situation. He will see people or other animals as a potential threat to his claim on the resource in question. Remember, the instinct derives from a survival mechanism.
Therefore, even though your pet knows he will be fed every day, the instinct is strong and governs his reaction to anyone else approaching his dish.
A resource guarder cannot handle competition and won’t share. He will act aggressively in order to protect his priority access to the object he is guarding. When his control is threatened, your dog may become irritable, angry, and hyper vigilant.
Important:
Working with an overtly aggressive dog may be dangerous, so be sure to have the dog evaluated by a professional trainer. Children should not be allowed to interact with a dog exhibiting this behavior.
You Should Not Punish Your Dog for Resource Guarding
When your dog is defensive about something or someone, your angry demeanor or raised voice will likely only make him more confrontational. He will perceive your reaction as increased competition and guard the resource even more vehemently. Physically wrestling the object from your dog will only make him more determined to control it, and may even provoke an attack.
A resource guarding dog should not be physically punished, or made to feel dominated or challenged. Instead, the owner should strive to find ways to make the dog feel more comfortable and confident in his role in the family.
Through a patient process of training, you can teach your dog to stop resource guarding. But the process will take time and require consistency – and compassion – on your part. But, you can do it! Keep on enjoying life with your best friend!
