Resource guarding among dogs is an extremely common and normal behavior. Dogs are pre-programmed not to want to share valued resources with others. For pet dogs, resources may include food, toys, or even the owner's attention. In most households, resource guarding is limited to simple communication, but sometimes the behavior can escalate in frequency or intensity and injuries can occur. If you are ever concerned about aggressive behavior in your dog, related to resource guarding or not, it is best to contact your vet or other qualified professional for help before proceeding on your own.
aggression
New Year's Resolutions, Clicker-Style!
By Aidan Bindoff on 12/21/2023When you make your New Year's resolutions this year, why not include your dog? Popular resolutions such as "get more exercise" can easily include the family pet, and many spiritual, personal growth, environmental, and philanthropical goals can include your best friend, too. Here are our top 7 ideas for including a favorite canine in your New Year's resolutions.
Don’t Socialize the Dog!
By trainer@canines... on 04/30/2019Really?
That title is a typo, right? A professional dog trainer would never advocate against socialization, would she? Well, maybe!
The problem isn't with socialization itself, but with many people's understanding of socialization. Socialization is vital for proper mental and social development in dogs, and it needs to be offered properly. Mistakes in socialization, even if intentions are good, can backfire and may even produce an overly shy or overly aggressive dog.
Ten Reasons Your Dog May Develop Behavior Problems
By Sarah Fulcher on 01/05/2017Bad behavior: the big picture
The Power of Ongoing Learning
By Ken Ramirez on 08/31/2016Last month I wrote about some well-trained, problem-solving animals and the incredible things they accomplished on their own.