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Chow Chows are known for their loyalty and protective nature, which can sometimes lead to resource guarding behavior. Resource guarding is a common problem in many dog breeds, including the Chow Chow, and can be a serious issue if left unaddressed. It is essential for dog owners to understand the signs of resource guarding and how to stop it effectively. In this article, we will discuss the different ways to stop a Chow Chow from resource guarding. By following these strategies, dog owners can help their Chow Chows overcome this behavior and have a happy and healthy relationship with their pets.
Note: Resource guarding can be a challenging problem for a dog owner. In addition to the tips below, you may want to consider consulting the help of a professional. Two excellent online courses we reviewed for resource guarding are SpiritDog and K9 Training Institute.
1. Understand What’s Triggering Your Chow Chow‘s Resource Guarding
The first step in addressing resource guarding is to identify the specific triggers causing your Chow Chow to display this behavior. Observe your Chow Chow closely and take note of which resources they guard and under what circumstances. Common triggers include:
- The presence of other dogs or pets
- Approach of family members, especially children
- Sudden movements or loud noises near the guarded resource
Understanding the triggers allows you to manage the environment effectively, preventing incidents before they occur.
2. Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning Your Chow Chow Against Resource Guarding
Desensitization and counter-conditioning are powerful techniques to help your Chow Chow overcome resource guarding. Desensitization involves gradually exposing your dog to the triggering situations, starting with low-intensity encounters and gradually increasing the intensity. Counter-conditioning, on the other hand, involves teaching your dog to associate the presence of the trigger with positive experiences.
For example, if your Chow Chow guards their food bowl when approached, start by standing a considerable distance away while they eat. Gradually decrease the distance over time, rewarding your dog with praise or treats when they remain calm. This process helps your dog associate your presence near their food with positive outcomes, reducing their need to guard the resource.
3. Teach Your Chow Chow the “Leave It” Command
Training your Chow Chow to respond to the “leave it” command is essential in addressing resource guarding. This command tells your dog to release whatever they’re holding or to stop focusing on a particular item. To teach this command:
- Hold a treat in your closed hand and present it to your Chow Chow.
- When your dog sniffs or paws at your hand, say “leave it.”
- Once your dog stops trying to get the treat, praise them and reward them with a treat from your other hand.
- Gradually progress to using the command with other objects, such as toys or food bowls.
Using the “leave it” command consistently can help prevent resource-guarding incidents before they escalate.
4. Teach Your Chow Chow the “Drop It” or “Give” Commands
Similar to the “leave it” command, teaching your Chow Chow to “drop it” or “give” is crucial in managing resource guarding. These commands instruct your dog to release an item from their mouth or willingly give it to you. To teach these commands:
- Start by playing with a toy your dog likes but doesn’t typically guard.
- While your dog is holding the toy, say “drop it” or “give” and offer a high-value treat.
- When your dog releases the toy, praise them and give them the treat.
- Gradually progress to using the command with more valuable items.
5. Practice the “Trade-Up” Technique with Your Chow Chow
The “trade-up” technique involves offering your Chow Chow a higher-value item in exchange for the one they’re guarding. This method teaches your dog that surrendering a resource can lead to better rewards, reducing their need to guard. Practice this technique by offering a high-value treat or a favorite toy whenever your dog is guarding a less valuable item. Over time, your dog will learn that giving up a guarded resource is a positive experience.
6. Avoid Punishing Your Chow Chow
Punishing your Chow Chow for resource guarding can exacerbate the problem and lead to increased aggression. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and reward-based training to modify your dog’s behavior. By consistently rewarding your dog for desired behaviors, you reinforce the idea that there’s no need to guard resources, as good things happen when they share or relinquish them. Remember that patience and consistency are key when working with a dog that displays resource guarding behaviors.
7. Try an Online Training Program for Resource Guarding
If your Chow Chow‘s resource guarding behavior is severe or doesn’t improve with consistent training, it’s crucial to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. These experts can help identify the root cause of the issue and create a tailored training plan to address the problem effectively. In some cases, medical issues or anxiety may contribute to resource guarding, and a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist can help diagnose and treat these underlying conditions.
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Stop Resource Guarding” Course
The Stop Resource Guarding training course, attended by 243 students, consists of 42 comprehensive lessons that teach you science-based, fear-free techniques to help your dog trust you around their treasures and train a solid “Drop It” cue. With lifetime access, step-by-step instructions, and a certificate upon completion, this course will transform your relationship with your dog and eliminate resource guarding behaviors.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just a resource guarding course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
3 Signs Your Chow Chow is Resource Guarding
- Growling or snarling: This is the most obvious sign that your Chow Chow is resource guarding. If they feel threatened or feel like someone is going to take away their resource, they may growl or snarl to warn them to stay away.
- Stiff body language: If your Chow Chow becomes very still and rigid around their resource, this may indicate that they are trying to protect it from others.
- Aggressive behavior: In severe cases, a Chow Chow may exhibit aggressive behavior when trying to protect their resource. This could include biting, lunging, or even attacking another dog or person who comes too close to their possession.
In conclusion, resource guarding can be a serious issue in Chow Chows and other dog breeds. It’s important to recognize the signs of resource guarding in your dog and take steps to address the problem. With patience, consistency, and proper training techniques, it is possible to stop resource guarding behavior in Chow Chows. Seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can also be beneficial in addressing resource guarding in your dog. Remember that resource guarding is a natural behavior in dogs, and it’s up to us as owners to provide a safe and secure environment for our furry friends.
Note: Resource guarding can be a challenging problem for a dog owner. In addition to the tips above, you may want to consider consulting the help of a professional. Two excellent online courses we like for resource guarding are SpiritDog and K9 Training Institute.
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