At Paws Academy, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate behaviours like canine resource guarding. This instinctual behaviour, where dogs protect items or spaces they value, is common and often misunderstood. In this blog, we’ll explore why dogs resource guard, provide examples of this behaviour, and share do's and don'ts for effectively addressing it. Understanding your dog’s needs and emotional state is key to managing this behaviour and fostering a strong bond.
What Is Canine Resource Guarding?
Canine resource guarding is a behaviour where a dog acts to protect something they see as valuable. This can range from food and toys to resting spots or even a person. Dogs may exhibit subtle signs like stiffening or more pronounced behaviours such as growling, snapping, or lunging.
Why Do Dogs Resource Guard?
This instinctual behaviour is rooted in survival. In the wild, guarding resources like food or shelter is essential. Even in domestic settings, dogs may guard for several reasons:
Early Experiences: Dogs that had to compete for resources or experienced scarcity may learn to guard what they have.
Lack of Socialisation: Insufficient exposure to different environments, people, and situations during early development can lead to anxiety and guarding behaviours.
Learned Responses: Dogs who were punished for having items in the past might become defensive, fearing they will lose what they value.
Examples of Resource Guarding
Recognising resource guarding is crucial for addressing it effectively. Some common examples include:
Food Guarding: Growling, snapping, or eating quickly when someone approaches their food bowl.
Toy Guarding: Protecting toys by stiffening, growling, or moving away with the item.
Space Guarding: Becoming defensive when others approach their resting area, like a bed or couch.
Person Guarding: Showing possessive behaviours when others interact with a specific individual they are attached to.
The Emotional State of a Resource Guarding Dog
When a dog is resource guarding, they often experience fear or anxiety. Their actions stem from a desire to protect what they view as essential to their well-being. Recognising their emotional state helps us respond with empathy rather than frustration, setting the stage for effective behaviour modification.
Do's and Don'ts for Managing Canine Resource Guarding
Do's:
Stay Calm and Neutral: Avoid reacting emotionally; this can heighten the dog’s anxiety.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Teach cues like "drop it" or "leave it" by rewarding your dog for giving up items willingly.
Create a Safe Space: Feed your dog in a quiet, separate area and manage triggers when possible.
Seek Professional Help: Reach out to us at Paws Academy for tailored strategies to address resource guarding.
Don'ts:
Avoid Punishment: Reacting negatively can worsen fear and escalate guarding behaviours.
Don’t Forcefully Take Items: Taking resources away abruptly can lead to defensive aggression.
Don’t Ignore the Behaviour: Early intervention is key to preventing the behaviour from worsening.
Conclusion
Canine resource guarding is a natural behaviour that can be managed with the right approach. By understanding the causes, recognising the signs, and implementing positive strategies, you can help your dog feel more secure and confident. At Paws Academy, we’re here to help you navigate these challenges and build a stronger connection with your dog.
Do you need guidance addressing your dog’s resource guarding behaviour? Contact us today.