How to Prevent Food Aggression

If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior such as snarling growling or snapping when you, another person or other dogs approach him in the presence of food he is likely food aggressive. This is a potentially serious form of dog aggression but is one that can be controlled with proper dog behavior modification techniques. Once training is completed your dog will be happier and safe from the unwanted consequences of aggressive behavior toward humans or other dogs. If you suspect food aggression in your dog it is best to consult with a Veterinarian before starting your behavior modification routine as there can be underlying health conditions that cause this type of behavior.

Once you are sure that there are no underlying health issues you should attempt to understand the causes behind this behavior problem. Dogs exhibit food aggression, which is a form of dominant dog behavior, for a variety of reasons. Often dogs feel insecure and believe that the bowl of food he is guarding is the last bowl of food he will see in a while. Your dog also might lack proper socialization skills with people or other dogs. He might also be showing nervous aggression associated with too little exercise. He might also have a past of starvation or abuse which can cause aggression in rescued or previously abandoned dogs.

After you have an understanding of the psychological reasons behind food aggression you can begin to modify your dog’s behavior. If your dog’s food aggression is severe you might want to enlist professional help. Often, you can handle the situation yourself; however, it is important to do this without the help of any children living in the household as children are at higher risk of dog bites in these instances. To start you should give your dog a nice long walk to relieve him of any pent up aggression from lack of activity. It is always best to train a dog or attempt to modify behavior when the dog is well-exercised and calm as he will be more relaxed. It is always important to reward desired behavior so always praise and reward when your dog completes the correct behavior or makes a step in the right direction.

The first step is to take control of feeding time and set clear boundaries regarding food. Always finish eating your food first and never feed your dog from the table. This will let your dog know that you are the pack leader and increase your pack status. When it is time for your dog to eat make sure to make him work for his dinner. Place him in a sit stay and then provide the food bowl as a reward. If your dog still shows aggression do not back away or feed him. Simply place the food bowl on the counter and calmly leave the room. After some time has passed bring your dog back into the feeding room and place him in a down sit and try again.

During this process never loose your temper and react by striking your dog or through other physical violence. You want your dog to associate good things with having other people around when he is eating and anger or physical aggression will only cause the situation to escalate leading to possible bites or other more serious aggression. It will also make the behavior worse in the future by increasing your dog’s insecurities. As you shape your dog’s behavior you should give and take away food frequently to get your dog used to people handling his bowl. A routine and practice will also enforce the fact that you will continue to provide food and it will continue to be a good experience.

If your dog is aggressive with other dogs in the household you should work on his human dog aggression first. In the mean time, the best option is often feeding the two dogs in two separate rooms. As your dog gains confidence and earns his food on positive terms his aggression should subside. As your dog gains confidence and shows behavior improvements it is important to get all family members involved to show a unified front and consistent message to your dog that people, plus food, equals a good thing.

Article submitted by the authors from pet super store dog beds for large dogs.