This is a summary of our Rescue Sh*t podcast Episode (S1, E14).
Understanding and Managing Resource Guarding in Dogs
Resource guarding is one of the most common behavioral issues in dogs, yet many owners don’t realize they are reinforcing it until it escalates into a serious problem. This behavior occurs when a dog attempts to assert ownership over a particular object, space, or even a person. Resource guarding can involve food, toys, beds, furniture, and even people. The good news? It’s highly predictable—and therefore, highly fixable.
Recognizing Resource Guarding
Many dog owners go years without realizing their dog is prone to resource guarding because it may not manifest until a new situation arises—such as the introduction of another dog or changes in the household. Common signs of resource guarding include:
Growling or snapping when approached while eating
Defensiveness over toys, chews, or high-value treats like bones or bully sticks
Territorial behavior over furniture, crates, or specific areas of the house
Protecting a person from being approached by others
This behavior is especially common in smaller dogs, as many owners find it amusing or fail to correct it early on. However, resource guarding is not a sign of dominance—it’s a fear-based response to the possibility of losing something valuable.
Why Does Resource Guarding Happen?
Resource guarding is often reinforced unintentionally. If a dog growls when approached near its food bowl and the owner backs off, the dog learns that growling works. Over time, this behavior escalates, potentially leading to a bite.
Other common triggers include:
Changes in the home, such as a new pet or baby
Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy (dogs can sense them!)
A lack of consistent boundaries regarding possessions
How to Correct Resource Guarding
Because resource guarding is predictable, it is also highly trainable. Here are the steps to help modify this behavior:
1. Prevention and Early Intervention
If you notice early signs of guarding, address them immediately. Puppies should be conditioned to accept people near their food bowls and taught the value of trading objects rather than feeling the need to guard them.
2. Use a Leash Indoors
One of the simplest ways to correct resource guarding is to keep a leash on your dog inside the house. If your dog begins guarding furniture or a person, a gentle leash tug can guide them off the couch or away from the resource without escalating the situation. Reaching for a dog or grabbing their collar can lead to a defensive bite.
3. Teach a “Trade” Command
A dog that resource guards must learn that relinquishing an item results in something better. This is accomplished through trade exercises:
Offer a high-value treat in exchange for the item they are guarding.
Use a calm voice and avoid grabbing objects forcefully.
Over time, phase out the treat rewards, so they give up items on command.
4. Manage Their Environment
For dogs that guard food bowls, remove the bowl after meals and feed by hand or through training exercises. If a dog guards furniture, do not allow access until they learn appropriate boundaries.
5. Muzzle Training for Safety
For severe cases, a basket muzzle can be a lifesaver. Dogs can still pant, eat, drink, and receive treats with a properly fitted basket muzzle. Muzzle training should always be done positively, with treats and praise to ensure the dog is comfortable wearing it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Laughing off behavior: Small dog owners often dismiss guarding as “cute” until it escalates.
Punishing the dog: Harsh corrections can make guarding worse by increasing anxiety.
Inconsistency: Resource guarding must be corrected every time it happens, or the dog will continue testing boundaries.
When to Seek Professional Help
While most cases of resource guarding can be managed with consistency and patience, some dogs require the guidance of a professional behaviorist. If your dog has already bitten someone or has severe guarding issues, seek help from a qualified trainer with experience in rehabilitation.
The Bottom Line
Resource guarding is not a sign of a “bad” dog—it is a natural survival instinct that can be corrected with the right training. If you’re willing to put in the effort, you can create a structured environment where your dog feels secure and doesn’t feel the need to guard resources. The key to success? Predictability, consistency, and controlled management.
Be sure to check our our other article about about resource guarding too.
If you have specific questions or experiences with resource guarding, feel free to reach out to us at rescue shit at motleyzoo.org.
And remember:
Rock on. Rescue on.
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