How to Curb Fido’s Food Aggression
When handed food or bones, some canines become aggressive. Dogs may turn angry, growling, and snarling when you get near them and their food. These behaviors are called canine possession aggression, and food aggression is one of the most common forms.
But what can you do to curb this mean habit? Here’s what you should know about food aggression and what you can do about it.
What Is Food Aggression?
Food aggression is prevalent in dogs, with nearly 20 percent of dogs showing signs of food aggression.
Food aggression occurs when dogs react territorially towards their food, treats, or water. They utilize this behavior to guard their food and take claim on it. This trait was passed down through generations, originating when dogs had to protect every meal.
This trait can become especially dangerous if there are children around or even adults if there is an incredibly aggressive pup.
How to Train Your Dog
From an early age, owners should train their dogs to ensure food aggression does not occur. Using the trading or giving exercises can be helpful.
When a dog is young, it may steal valuable things. To combat this, many people try “trading” the item for a treat to teach the dog that they will be rewarded when they give something up. Owners also use the command “give” as a training tool to have their dog return an item.
It is also recommended to give your puppy food and pick it up often as they eat to show that you are in control as the owner.
It is essential to ensure your dog gets an adequate amount of food. If your pup feels deprived or hungry, it will become possessive over its food.
How to Change Your Dog’s Behavior
There are some dogs that have already established this food aggression behavior. Whether your dog has acquired a nasty habit or you adopted a pup who has already had food aggression, there is still hope.
Start training with having your dog sit before giving them food. This act helps establish that you are in charge from the start. It would help if you stood near your dog as it eats, and you should ignore signs of aggression. Next, you should push the food bowl with your foot little by little. If your dog is showing signs of aggression, attach them to a leash to pull them back when discipline is necessary. Lastly, persistence and patience are essential to the process.
If these tips do not work, utilizing a qualified trainer can help curb anger in those that struggle with food aggression. Contact a Sit Means Sit dog training center near you to work with professionals.