Resource guarding
A survival or defensive behaviour, resource guarding involves a dog trying to protect a person, item or space of value to prevent it being taken away. Sometimes referred to as "possessive aggression", resource guarding is natural canine behaviour - and when dogs must scavenge in the wild, it is a key survival strategy. In a domestic environment, however, it can become problematic.
Fortunately, there some measures that can reassure dogs they don’t need to take this defensive posture. When dogs exhibit extreme resource guarding behaviour, it is advisable to seek out a certified canine behaviourist for support.
What is resource guarding?
A tactic inherited from their wild ancestors, resource guarding is a behaviour fuelled by fear that can happen when dogs are afraid of losing something they value. Common items include chew toys, food bowls and stolen socks, but places and people may also be guarded, like favourite nap spots and family members.
Signs of resource guarding
There are early indicators of resource guarding that are easy to spot. These include lip licking, a stiffening posture, showing the whites of their eyes (whale eye) and using their body to block access to items and areas.
More extreme signs can include lunging, snapping and growling or swiftly swallowing non-food items before they can be taken away.
How to handle resource guarding
As this behaviour is fear based, forcefully taking items and scolding dogs makes resource guarding worse, as it increases anxiety.
It can help to offer dogs something better instead, like high-value treats. This technique can be used to teach them a drop cue and to desensitise them to wanting to guard specific items they consider resources.
Do you need support with extreme resource guarding behaviour?
A qualified dog aggression behaviourist in the Cotswolds and surrounding areas, Azz Rainey can be counted on for a personalised service. If your dog is showing signs of extreme resource guarding, reach out to him for an online consultation or in-person support.
