What is Resource Guarding in Dogs?

by Kate Barrington

Published: June 12th, 2016

It’s all my food! Mine! Dogs love their food – but sometimes, that love turns into a dangerous obsession. Here’s how to treat resource guarding in dogs.

As a dog owner, one of your biggest and most important tasks is to train your dog. For some dogs, this task is easier said than done – especially if your dog has problems like resource guarding. Resource guarding is common, especially in puppies that come from large litters, and it is something you can deal with on your own at home. Here’s what resource guarding in dogs is and how to stop it.

Understanding Resource Guarding in Dogs

Does your dog growl at you if you try to touch him while he is eating? Does he become possessive about his favorite toy or a tasty bone? Does he snap at you or other dogs if someone gets near him when he is enjoying a treat or toy? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, your dog may have a problem with resource guarding. Resource guarding is a natural response for dogs because they have an innate need to protect their food and other resources from competitors. This response goes all the way back to wild wolves who would fight each other over food.

Resource guarding can manifest in a variety of different ways, ranging from seemingly benign behaviors to all-out aggression. On the milder side, many dogs run away with a treat or toy if someone approaches them – they may also growl if someone approaches them while they are enjoying their food or a favorite toy. On the more extreme end of the behavioral scale, some dogs will actually bark or snap at anyone who approaches them. They may even go so far as to bite or chase the offender away.

Tips for Dealing with the Problem

As natural a behavior as resource guarding is, it can also be dangerous – especially if you have young children in the home who do not understand why they can’t approach the dog when he is eating. The last thing you want is for your dog to snap at or even bite your child. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to cut back on resource guarding – there are also some steps you can implement early in your puppy’s life to prevent it from becoming a problem. Hand-feeding, for example, is a great way to prevent your puppy from developing resource guarding behavior – you can also speak to the dog while he is eating so he doesn’t feel threatened by your approach.

If your puppy already exhibits resource guarding behavior, your approach needs to be a little bit different. The key to dealing with food guarding behavior is to desensitize your dog in a series of stages so he no longer feels threatened. To start, stand a few feet away from your dog as he is eating and periodically speak to him in a non-threatening manner then toss a treat into his bowl. For example, you could say something like “what have you got there,” repeating it every few seconds until he is done eating. When your dog remains calm throughout this process for 10 meals in a row you can move on to the next stage.

In this stage, repeat the process but take a single step toward him as you speak then step back and toss the treat. Each day, step a little closer to your dog until he is relaxed for a full 10 meals with you standing within two feet of his bowl. Next, repeat the process while standing right next to the bowl – right after you drop the treat into it, turn and walk away. When your dog gets use to this, move on to keeping the treat in your hand, bending down to offer it to your dog while he is eating. After he takes the treat, turn and walk away then repeat until he finishes his meal. Next, actually touch your dog’s bowl when you bend down and offer a treat with the other hand at the same time. In the final stage, actually pick up your dog’s bowl to drop the treat in, then put it back.

With these basic tips, you can effectively deal with your dog’s resource guarding behavior. The key is to be patient and do not rush your dog from one stage to the next – make sure he is completely comfortable with one thing before you move on.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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What Should I Do If My Dog is Resource Guarding?

Does your dog growl every time you get near their food dish? Do they snap at any other dog that tries to touch their favorite toys? If so, you may be dealing with resource guarding in dogs. The number of dogs exhibiting this behavior is hard to track, but one thing is certain – you are not alone! This is a natural behavior that dates back to your dog’s ancestors, but it can be changed. Addressing and breaking this behavior isn’t easy and can take a long time to work through. In the meantime, you must manage the situation to keep your dog and everyone around them (especially children and other pets) safe. In this article, you will learn what resource guarding is, the potential triggers that may cause your dog to act this way, and how you can start working towards a solution today! What is Resource Guarding? If you have stumbled across this article, you may be wondering: what exactly IS resource guarding anyway? At its core, the term “ resource guarding” refers to an attempt by a dog to protect or assert ownership over something they deem important or valuable. Often, when we talk about this behavior, it is associated with food, treats, or toys, but it can extend beyond that. Some dogs will become protective over a shared water dish, bed, or even their favorite person. There are many ways your dog may communicate this ownership. Some dogs will stiffen and stare hard at the perceived threat, while others will growl, bark, lunge, or even try to bite if someone (human, dog, cat, or other threat) is getting close to their valued item. In the wild, this behavior allowed your dog’s ancestors to boost their chance of survival by holding onto any necessities they have collected. Unfortunately, in a domesticated dog, this behavior can be incredibly problematic. Is Resource Guarding Always Aggressive? While it could be argued that resource-guarding behavior isn’t always “aggressive,” it always has the potential to escalate to aggressive behavior. Some dogs will communicate a warning by stiffening their body, placing themselves between the perceived threat and the valuable item, covering the valuable thing with their head or paws, or staring intensely at the perceived threat. These behaviors may not seem concerning at the time. After all, your dog is not actively trying to cause harm to anyone around them. But a warning should always be taken seriously. If the situation is not addressed, your dog may feel they must move to the next stage to protect what’s theirs.

What Are the Benefits of a Limited Ingredient Diet?

Have you ever heard of a Limited Ingredient Diet for dogs? Dinnertime goes back to basics to help pets with food sensitivities. If you take a stroll through the dog food aisle at your local pet store you shouldn’t be surprised to find a wide selection of brand names and dozens of different recipes to choose from. The vast majority of options available can make it difficult for dog owners to make a choice. If you want to maximize your dog’s nutritional benefits while minimizing his risk for food allergies and other diet-related problems, you may want to consider a Limited Ingredient Diet (LID). Related: What is a Limited Ingredient Diet? What is a Limited Ingredient Diet? A limited ingredient diet is exactly what it sounds like – a diet that is made up of a limited number of ingredients. If you scan the ingredients list for traditional kibbles, you may find that the list includes as many as twenty or thirty entries. Furthermore, many of these ingredients may be difficult to identify – they either have chemical-sounding names or they are byproducts. With a limited ingredient diet, you can expect the ingredients list to be much shorter and, in many cases, the ingredients used in the formula are of high quality and they are easy to identify. Many limited ingredient diets also make use of “novel” protein and carbohydrate sources – that is uncommon sources like rabbit or duck for protein and things like green peas or sweet potato for carbohydrate. Related: What is Resource Guarding in Dogs? What are the Benefits of LIDs for Dogs? The main benefit of a limited ingredient diet for dogs is a reduced risk for food sensitivities. Many commercial dog foods are made with low-quality ingredients and ingredients that have a high risk for triggering food sensitivities. The more your dog is exposed to potential sensitivities, the greater his risk for developing a sensitivity. The way limited ingredient diets work is by removing those potential sensitivities from the equation, swapping in ingredients that your dog may not have eaten before to further reduce the risk for an allergic reaction. If your dog suffers from food sensitivities, you should consider switching to an LID for a period of at least 12 weeks until all signs of the allergy have disappeared. Then, you may choose to reintroduce potential sensitivities one at a time in order to determine which ones affect your dog. Then, simply feed your dog a diet that is free from those sensitivities for the rest of his life. In addition to reducing the risk for food sensitivities, feeding your dog a limited ingredient diet may offer other benefits such as: Reduced stomach sensitivity issues, relief from digestive upsetImproved energy levels related to proper nutrition and nutrient absorptionRelief from skin problems such as itching, flaking, and hot spotsImproved digestion and regularity, fewer and firmer stoolsMay have a lower carbohydrate content (depending on the formula)Limited number of ingredients often means no/fewer artificial additives The diet you choose for your dog plays a significant role in determining his overall health and wellbeing. A nutritious diet made of high-quality ingredients has the best chance of maximizing your dog’s lifespan and keeping him healthy and a limited ingredient diet just might be the best option for your dog.

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

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Harvest mites, also known as chiggers or red bugs, are tiny parasitic mites that feed on the skin of various animals - including dogs. That’s right - dogs can get harvest mites too. These tiny pests are common in warm and dry climates and are active during the late summer and early fall. It is because of this that they are called “harvest” mites. But don’t be fooled by their tiny size – these mites can cause significant discomfort to dogs, mostly due to the irritation that their bites can cause.What Are Harvest Mites? Are They Dangerous for Dogs?Belonging to the Trombiculidae family, harvest mites are this subclade’s larvae. They are almost microscopic, measuring only about 0.2 mm in size. These mites are bright orange or red, which makes them slightly easier to spot on a dog’s skin, though their small size still makes them difficult to detect. They tend to live in grassy or wooded areas and attach themselves to dogs, humans, or other animals when they come into contact with the vegetation where the mites live.Now, once a harvest mite attaches itself to a dog’s skin, they will inject saliva into it in order to break down the cells which they consume. Unlike fleas or ticks, which feed on blood, these mites feed on skin cells. It is this process that causes an intense allergic reaction in dogs, leading to inflammation and itching. The dog may develop red, raised bumps or welts at the bite sites, typically in areas where the skin is thinner, such as the paws, belly, ears, or armpits.Your furry friend might scratch or bite the affected area, in hopes of easing the irritation. But this can potentially cause further skin damage or further infections. While harvest mites do not burrow into the skin, their bites can remain itchy and uncomfortable for several days, even after the mites are detached and gone.Symptoms of Harvest Mites in DogsIt is important to note that intense itching and irritation are not the only symptoms of harvest mite bites. If a dog is repeatedly scratching or licking at a particular area, this could indicate the presence of harvest mites, so know what signs to look out for.Red bumps and welts will often appear on the dog’s paws, belly, ears, or between their toes.Itching that is caused by harvest mites can be intense, and if your pet is vigorously scratching this is a classic indicator.In some cases, dogs may lose fur around the affected area due to excessive scratching.Constant scratching or biting may lead to crusty patches or open wounds. This is one of the more advanced signs.Of course, you need to make sure that harvest mite infestation is treated as soon as possible. This typically involves relieving the itching and removing any remaining mites. Of course, you need to seek the help of a vet, who will prescribe the proper treatment for your pet's unique case.

Pet Safety Reminders For the 4th of July

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Dog Poop Incident Grounds a United Airlines Flight

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Can I Fly with My Cat on My Next Vacation?

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Do Cat Colors Affect Personality?

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Sure, cats tend to spend a lot of their day seemingly lazing about, basking in the sun, meticulously cleaning themselves, and snoozing away. However, that doesn’t mean that cats are not active animals that need daily exercise – they have an instinct to hunt, explore, and engage in different activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, cats can become bored, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues. This is why playtime is not “just” a matter of playing for felines. It meets their most basic needs and it's an essential component of their overall well-being.What Are the Benefits of Playtime for Cats?Engaging your cat in interactive play stimulates their cognitive abilities, keeping their minds sharp and active. Activities like chasing toys, solving puzzles, or hunting for treats mimic their natural hunting instincts, providing mental enrichment. Enrichment is crucial to prevent destructive behaviors, aggression, and other behavioral issues that stem from boredom and lack of mental stimulation. In addition to keeping your kitty’s mind sharp, playtime will keep them fit as a fiddle and in their top form. Regular play sessions help cats balance extra energy, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent obesity-related health issues. It also promotes muscle tone, flexibility, and overall physical fitness, reducing the risk of joint problems as they age.Last but not least, interactive play presents a unique bonding opportunity. Playing together with your cat will strengthen your relationship, fostering trust and affection. It's a chance to spend quality time together and will provide your cat with a sense of security and happiness.How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?The importance of your cat having regular playtime is indisputable, but how much playtime do they need? Well, as it usually goes with these things, the answer will largely depend on your pet’s specific traits, such as their age, breed, and health status. However, for most cats, that “magic” number ends up being between 20 to 30 minutes of playtime each day. This could be your starting point to determine the right amount of play for your pet, just tailor it to their needs – for instance, younger cats and kittens will need longer and more frequent play sessions to burn off excess energy and engage their curious minds. How To Make Playtime Engaging for Your CatAs intelligent and sometimes finicky animals, cats can be a bit hard to please. A new toy might bore them in a matter of hours, or they might prefer scratching your couch rather than the new cat tree you bought them – but if you rely on the following tricks, it’s much likelier that your kitty will enjoy playtime.#1 Rotate ToysKeep your cat's interest piqued by rotating their toys regularly. Introduce new toys periodically to prevent boredom and stimulate their curiosity, but don’t overdo it – bringing home new toys too often will ensure they get bored of each one too quickly. #2 Variety is KeyExperiment with different types of toys, such as wand toys, laser pointers, puzzle feeders, and interactive play circuits. Cats have unique preferences, so observe what activities your cat enjoys most and tailor playtime accordingly. Usually, a safe bet is going for a catnip-filled toy such as the well-loved  Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy. Popular for its shape that makes it perfect for cats to grab onto and forcefully scratch with all fours, this toy will keep your kitty engaged thanks to the organic catnip stuffing that fills this banana-shaped toy to the brim.

Can You Tame a Hamster?

With their adorable miniature size and curious eyes, it is no wonder that hamsters have become popular pets. But don’t let their size fool you… These little guys can be a lot to handle. Realizing that their adorable little pocket pet is prone to biting, many new hamster parents have one key question: Can you tame a hamster? Is it possible to build a close bond and relationship with this new tiny friend? The answer is yes! With patience and a few simple techniques, you can build the trust needed for your hamster to not only be comfortable being held but to enjoy it. Keep reading to discover the secrets of training a hamster, from creating the ideal environment to offering tasty treats. Start building a solid relationship and special memories with your hamster today. Do Hamsters Like to be Held? While I wish I could give you a black-and-white answer, the truth is that it depends. Just as some dogs love to be held while others are more independent, the same can be said about hamsters. Some hamsters are overly affectionate and love being given that kind of attention and physical affection. Others may be more resistant. This could be because they are nervous about being held and haven’t been tamed, or they have a more independent personality and simply prefer to be left alone. There is no way to know if your pet will warm up to being held without putting the time into taming them and seeing how they respond. Pay careful attention to your hamster’s body language. If you are working through everything outlined below and they still aren’t interested in being held for any length of time, they may be trying to tell you that it just isn’t their cup of tea. Do Hamster Bites Hurt? This is a common concern among new hamster parents, especially if you are considering a hamster for your child. Like most rodents, hamsters have little teeth that aren’t likely going to do much damage during a bit. However, the lack of lasting damage doesn’t mean it won’t hurt – especially if the one on the receiving end is a young child. Luckily, hamster bites can easily be prevented with a combination of boundaries to keep children safe and training to build trust and acceptance with your hamster. How Do Hamsters Show Affection? Learning to read your pet’s body language is the key to opening the door to communication. This means familiarizing yourself with the signs that they are happy and comfortable as well as the signs they are stressed or anxious. If your hamster is comfortable around you, you may see them stretch and yawn as if tired. This is their way of telling you that they are relaxed. When they stop to groom themselves, they are comfortable and confident enough in their surroundings that they can stop nervously monitoring their surroundings and focus on something else. Hamsters who have bonded with their people learn to recognize their scent and voice. When you reach into their cage to bring them out, a tame and affectionate hamster may come to you happily rather than being reactive or trying to escape. However, this isn’t always true, as some happy, tame hamsters are also shy. You know your pet best.

Dog Who Went Through Three Failed Adoptions Finds A Forever Home

For Muddy Paws Rescue dog Sadie, the fourth time was the charm. After enduring three failed adoptions, the four-year-old pooch was adopted by her foster family.Sadie arrived from Kentucky at Muddy Paws Rescue, a foster-based New York City rescue in 2021. While the rescue searched for a loving family, Sadie was placed with several fosters but spent the most time with the GenilChin family. After helping the canine cope with three failed adoptions, the GenilChins made sure the fourth one stuck. Lizyle GenilChin told the People that she first met Sadie in 2021 when she and her husband Edmond went to pick up Sadie from another foster whose home was too lively for the dog’s comfort. “She was so scared. She was in her crate because that’s her safe space. When they tried to get her out, she peed. Eventually, we got her in the car,” said Lizyle adding, “She wasn’t walking at that point. She was too scared.”The couple brought Sadie home and introduced her to their two daughters and their dog Buko. The entire family, but especially Buko and Lizyle, worked daily to help Sadie overcome her fears. The family focused on getting their new foster dog comfortable with a leash and ensured she got plenty of playtime, which their dog Buko provided. “She was scared of the leash. As soon as I took it out she would go into her crate or cower. So we spent time in our backyard. She loved the backyard,” said Lizyle. With time, a lot of patience, and treats, Lizyle got Sadie comfortable wearing a leash. In 2022, Sadie was adopted for the first time. Unfortunately, the woman and her son weren’t happy with the pooch and returned her to foster care a week later. The GenilChins decided to keep Sadie occupied with hikes, playtime, and bonding to help her cope with the rejection.In January 2023, Saidy got a second chance at a forever home and was adopted again. The dog’s new adopters loved her and lived in a great location. Alas, the new owners realized they couldn’t care for Sadie like they thought and returned the pooch to Muddy Paws three months later. Once more, Sadie was placed with the GenilChin family. The pooch stayed with her foster family from April to October and they continued to train her. In October, Sadie was adopted for the third time, but once again the new owners realized they couldn’t care for the pooch.Through no fault of her own, Sadie ended up with her foster family for the fourth time. This time around the GenilChins decided to make Sadie an official member of their family and adopt her. “Every time from the beginning, we’re always like ‘Should we? Should we? Should we?’, said Lizyle. However, the family didn’t adopt Sadie because of their dog Buko.“We had our dog, and we wanted to keep fostering, If we kept her, I don’t think I could have handled three dogs.”But, Buko diet while Sadie was at her third home. Buko’s passing allowed the family to adopt Sadie and continue fostering with Muddy Paws. Sadie has quickly found her place with her adopted family and has come a long way from the scared dog GenilChins first brought into their home.“She has done a 720, this dog,” said Lizyle. “For a dog that was so scared of a leash, she loves to go out now, loves it.” Sadie also enjoys spending time in the backyard, sniffing out new smells, and practicing obedience commands. Sadie’s family hopes their experience will inspire others to foster rescue animals. “We are a family of four. The kids are scheduled up, we’re working parents. It was nice to bring another energy into the house that broke up the routine and the monotony. It added another dimension to our togetherness, which was really nice. That’s what’s close to my heart about fostering.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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