Effective Ways to Correct a Dog's Food Guarding Behavio

Section 1: The Ease of Training a Puppy

During the first two to four months, puppies with deciduous teeth tend to exhibit less aggression towards humans, and their brains begin to form memories. This period is particularly favorable for training.

Section 2: Feeding in the Presence of Others

Many owners lower their dogs' food bowls and step away while the dog eats. Over time, dogs become accustomed to eating alone and may develop a dislike for being disturbed during meals, as well as a stronger possessiveness over their food. Therefore, when feeding your dog, it's important to support it with your hand and talk to it to reassure it that you won't take its food. Then, pour the food into its bowl.

Section 3: Gentle Petting During Feeding

When petting your dog, proceed cautiously. Observe whether your dog is comfortable with the touch. Begin by stroking the lower half of its body and gradually move towards its head (this process might take several days). Wait until your dog is no longer opposed to the touch.

Section 4: Acclimating to Petting During Meals

While your dog is eating, if you notice any signs of threat, such as wrinkled nostrils, growling, or fixating on its food, firmly scold and remove the bowl. When the dog calms down, praise it, pet it, and say, "Good boy," before offering it food again. Repeat this process until the behavior no longer occurs.

Section 5: Feeding with Your Hand

Place the dog's food in the palm of your hand to feed it. This method helps your dog understand that the food comes from you and that you have the power to take it away. Once your dog is accustomed to this, you can try feeding it by hand with a bowl.

Training your dog to avoid food possessiveness is a gradual process. Avoid using harsh methods like hitting or scolding.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on feeding training, click on "How to Feed a Puppy Properly" to learn more.