Free Tips on How to Stop Resource Guarding in Dogs

For this Omaha puppy training session, we worked with 1 year-old Mini Aussie Wesley on how to stop resource guarding in dogs.

Why do Dogs Start Resource Guarding?

Resource guarding in dogs is a fairly common dog and puppy behavior problem. Dogs or puppies guard resources because they feel insecure and worry that someone may take their things. That is why one of the worst things you can do is challenge a dog who is resource guarding or take the thing away. This only reinforces the resource guarding problem.

But here, the dog was guarding the wife from the husband, which adds a challenge. The owners found that calling the dog away before the husband approached the couch helped prevent resource guarding. This tactic helps with resource guarding, but it doesn’t prevent the dog from wanting to protect the wife from the husband.

I handed my phone to Claire so I could show her an easy way to stop resource guarding in dogs and puppies. If your dog guards you, your wife or items in your home, you should check out the free positive puppy training video below.

When the person is present and gives the dog treats, the dog realizes they are not a threat. As a result, the dog no longer feels the need to guard the treats. Anyone can do this, even if they aren’t a professional Mini Australian Shepherd pup trainer.

Tips on How to Stop Resource Guarding in Dogs

Now this secret to stopping resource guarding in dogs takes practice and good awareness. If the dog is upset or reactive, it means we didn’t read their body language correctly and pushed past where the dog feels comfortable. This exercise to stop resource guarding only works if you go in slow steps so the dog is calm and relaxed the entire time.

Although this method can effectively prevent resource guarding in dogs, it’s important not to underestimate its significance. If a dog is guarding something, it may bite. It’s important to go slowly and watch for signs of discomfort before moving closer.

I suggested that Wesley sleep in the kennel instead of the bed because he also guards the other guardian at night. I have had many clients whose dogs bit them. This happened because the clients rolled over or moved in a way that made the dog feel protective of its resources. But since the human was asleep, they didn’t see any of the dog’s signals and warnings which resulted in some nasty bites.

Guardians can use resource guarding incidents as an opportunity to teach their dog not to guard resources. This can help reduce tension between the guardian and the dog.

When your dog shows signs of resource guarding, it’s a chance to teach them how to share without tension. With patience and consistent training, you can show them that giving up resources leads to good things, like treats and praise.

Over time, this approach helps dogs learn not to guard their belongings, making for a happier relationship with their humans. I’ve used this method for years and seen how it turns potential conflicts into learning moments, bringing dogs and their owners closer together.

Practice is key in helping the dog learn this behavior. It takes time and practice but is very doable. I have used this method to stop dogs from resource guarding for years.

We made a video to help Wesley’s owners remember the training tips for their puppy from this session in Omaha. The roadmap to success video is available for viewing below.