At Dog Days Glasgow, we believe that understanding canine behaviour through science-based, ethical training is the best way to foster a happy, well-adjusted dog. One common challenge dog owners face is resource guarding—a natural survival instinct that can lead to problematic behaviours if not managed correctly.
In this article, we’ll explore what resource guarding is, why it happens, and how to prevent or address it using evidence-based methods.
What Is Resource Guarding?
Resource guarding occurs when a dog attempts to protect a valuable item from perceived threats. This might include:
Food guarding (protecting meals, treats, or bones)
Toy guarding (becoming possessive over a favourite / high value toy)
Space guarding (protecting a bed, crate, or a favoured resting spot)
Person guarding (showing possessiveness over a specific person)
Dogs may display subtle signs like freezing, stiffening, or avoiding eye contact, or more obvious behaviours like growling, snapping, or lunging.
The Science Behind Resource Guarding
Resource guarding is not about dominance—it’s about survival instincts. In the wild, dogs that successfully defended their resources were more likely to survive. Even in domestic settings, this instinct remains. However, studies show that positive reinforcement-based training is the most effective way to modify this behaviour without increasing fear or anxiety (Herron, Shofer, & Reisner, 2009).
How to Prevent Resource Guarding
Preventing resource guarding is always easier than fixing it. By fostering positive associations with people near resources, dogs learn that there’s no need to guard.
1. Teach Your Dog That Humans Bring Good Things
Instead of taking items away, make your presence near their resources a predictor of rewards:
Walk by while your dog eats and toss high-value treats (chicken, cheese) into their bowl.
Offer bonus treats when they have a toy, reinforcing that people near their things bring good things.
2. Hand-Feed Your Dog Occasionally
Hand-feeding builds trust and reduces food-related tension. This isn’t necessary for every meal but can help create a positive bond between you and your dog.
3. Teach the “Trade” Game
Encourage voluntary object exchanges by offering a high-value treat in return for a toy or chew. This teaches your dog that giving things up results in something even better.
4. Avoid Forcing Items Away
Snatching things from a dog can increase their need to guard. Instead, encourage them to offer items willingly by using training techniques that make them feel safe.
5. Desensitisation & Counterconditioning
For dogs who show early signs of guarding, gradually desensitising them to having people near their food or toys can prevent escalation. Always work at your dog’s comfort level and associate human approach with positive outcomes.
How to Address Resource Guarding If It Occurs
If your dog has already developed guarding behaviours, it’s important to address it calmly and systematically.
1. Identify the Trigger
First, determine what your dog guards and in what context. Do they only guard their food bowl? Just from certain people? Understanding the details helps in crafting a training plan.
2. Never Punish Growling
A growl is a warning signal—it means the dog is uncomfortable. Punishing a growl may suppress the warning sign but won’t change the underlying discomfort. Instead, work on changing the dog’s emotional response to the situation.
3. Implement a Desensitisation Plan
Gradual exposure paired with positive reinforcement is key:
Start at a distance where your dog is relaxed.
Toss a high-value treat when approaching their resource (without taking anything).
Slowly reduce the distance over multiple sessions, always making it a positive experience.
4. Teach a Strong “Drop It” & “Leave It” Cue
Training your dog to voluntarily give up an item with a reward-based trade reduces tension. Avoid forceful removal of objects.
5. Manage the Environment
If your dog is prone to guarding, set them up for success:
Feed them in a quiet space without disturbances.
Keep high-value items out of reach when necessary.
Avoid confrontational situations that may trigger guarding.
6. Seek Professional Guidance When Needed
If resource guarding escalates to aggression, consult a certified behaviourist. Professional guidance ensures safety and a tailored training plan.
