Subtle Signs:
• Moving in between you and the resource
• Turning away from a person or another pet when they have the resource
• Eating faster when you or another pet approaches
• Eye sliding
• Lip licking
• Freezing – the body (usually over the resource itself)
Obvious Signs:
• Growling • Snarling • Snapping • Biting
Preventing Resource Guarding in Puppies
Resource guarding in puppies is very common. Even if you don’t notice your puppy guarding items, there are some important exercises and games to incorporate into your puppy’s training right from the start which will help to prevent problems further down the line.
Training Exercises
A lot of these exercises teach impulse control and manners, with the added benefit of making it easier to prevent resource guarding.
• Give or Out Teaching a puppy/dog to give an item up is super important. Many puppies like to pick up dangerous items around the house and yard. Always offer something of higher value in exchange for an item. Avoid taking items away without an exchange. See ‘Exchange Game” below.
• Gentle – taking something gently from your hand. Hold a treat in your hand with a closed fist. Let your puppy sniff your hand, and only when they stop grabbing or biting your hand, say ‘gentle’ and release the treat.
• Leave it – prevent your puppy/dog from picking something up in the first place (see our homework sheet)
• Stay/Wait – for impulse control and management.