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Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large breed that can sometimes display resource guarding behavior. This type of behavior can be a challenge to manage and can result in aggressive reactions if not addressed appropriately. As responsible pet owners, it’s important to understand the signs of resource guarding and how to prevent or stop it from happening. In this article, we will discuss ways to identify if your Dogue de Bordeaux is resource guarding and how to stop this behavior, without resorting to punishment or force.
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 Dogue de Bordeaux’s Resource Guarding
The first step in addressing resource guarding is to identify the specific triggers causing your Dogue de Bordeaux to display this behavior. Observe your Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux Against Resource Guarding
Desensitization and counter-conditioning are powerful techniques to help your Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux the “Leave It” Command
Training your Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux.
- 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 Dogue de Bordeaux the “Drop It” or “Give” Commands
Similar to the “leave it” command, teaching your Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux
The “trade-up” technique involves offering your Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux
Punishing your Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux’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 Dogue de Bordeaux is Resource Guarding
Here are three signs that your Dogue de Bordeaux may be resource-guarding:
- Growling or snarling: If your Dogue de Bordeaux growls or snarls when you approach their food bowl or toys, it could be a sign that they are resource-guarding.
- Stiff body language: A Dogue de Bordeaux that is resource guarding may have a stiff or tense body when you approach them while they have something they consider valuable.
- Aggressive behavior: In severe cases, a Dogue de Bordeaux that is resource guarding may become aggressive, lunging or biting to protect their resources.
In conclusion, resource guarding is a common behavior in many dog breeds, including the Dogue de Bordeaux. As a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to identify the signs of resource guarding to prevent any potential conflicts and ensure a harmonious relationship between you and your dog. With proper training and management, it is possible to modify your Dogue de Bordeaux’s behavior and prevent resource guarding. However, it’s essential to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to develop an effective training plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs. Remember, patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key factors in successfully modifying your dog’s behavior.
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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