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Q: My dog has been growling and showing his teeth at my 3-year-old when my child plays near the crate. What should I do?

A: Dogs sometimes guard things they think are important. This is called resource guarding. It can be a natural and instinctive behavior. Dogs may guard food, treats, water, resting spots, toys, or even people they love. They want to keep these things safe from other animals or people.

When this behavior goes too far, it can become dangerous. Your dog might show warning signs like lifting a lip, growling, or getting stiff. In the worst cases, your dog might snap or bite.

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What Do Dogs Guard?

• Food and treats. Dogs may become protective if someone approaches while they are eating. This includes their food bowl, treat puzzles, or snacks.
• Toys. Dogs may not want to share their toys or let others play with them.
• Resting Spots. Dogs may protect their beds, crates, couches, or other places where they rest.
• People: Dogs sometimes guard a person, such as their caregiver. They may try to stop others from getting close.

How To Help Your Dog

You can use several methods to help your dog feel less need to guard things:

• Keep them apart. Use gates, pens, or doors to keep your dog away from guarded items when others are around.
• Teach trading. Teach your dog to give you items in exchange for a better treat. Let your dog hand you the item. Then give praise and a yummy reward. Do not grab the item from your dog.
• Slow and steady training. Slowly get your dog used to people being near their things. Reward your dog for staying calm and not acting aggressively.
• Change how your dog feels. Work on helping your dog feel good, not scared or frustrated, when someone is near their stuff.

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How To Stop Resource Guarding Before It Starts

Start these habits as soon as you bring a new dog or puppy home:

• Feed all pets in the home in separate rooms where they cannot see each other.
• Never take things out of your dog’s mouth by force.
• Always offer a better treat or item when you want your dog to give something up.
• Stay calm and use an upbeat or “jolly” voice when talking to your dog.
• Drop a treat into the food bowl as you walk by.
• Keep children away from dogs while they are eating. Children should not touch your dog’s toys, treats, or food and water bowls.
• Your dog’s crate or bed is their safe space. Do not let children play or go in these areas. Do not let your child play with your dog inside their crate.

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When To Get Help

It is important to address resource guarding early. This keeps everyone safe and prevents the behavior from worsening. If you need help, talk to a qualified dog trainer, your veterinarian, or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.