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How to stop Possession Aggression in your dog
Possession aggression (also called Canine Possession Aggression or CPA) is a common and very serious problem with dogs. Not only is it unacceptable to have your dog growling at you or family, but this can be hazardous to your toddlers or guests.
What causes Possession Aggression
Dogs will always be dogs, and a part of being a dog almost just by instinct feels the need to protect his belonging, just as he would do in the wild
- If you constantly take away your dogs cherished items, Toys, treats, shoes you dog begins to see you as the one that relieves him of what he enjoys the most
- Your Dog doesn't have a clear understanding that you are the leader and this behavior is unacceptable
This type of behavior must be addressed immediately. this is your dog telling you "go away, leave my food/toy alone" sometimes it may seem cute, or you may choose to give him some space, but, this type of behavior can never be tolerated and never goes away. There must always be a strict and clear understanding of the dog/master relationship at all times, or else his behavior can and most likely will escalate into something much more serious.
How to stop Canine Possession Aggression
If you have an older dog that displays this behavior different approach must be taken
- Refrain from feeding from the dog bowl for a couple days. Hand feed your dog, little at a time.
- After a couple of days, bring back the dog bowl. In intervals, drop pieces of food, little at a time into his empty bowl over a period of 20 minutes until his meal is complete. this will make your dog anxious rather than annoyed when you come near his bowl. Do this for about one week.
- Fill his bowl with less than half's worth of food, and while he is eating add some more food until the meal is complete. Do this for about 3-4 days
- Put a full bowl of food on the floor while making sure your dog maintains his sit/stay position then a few seconds later, release him to the food. during his meal call him away and reward him for compliance with his favorite treats.
To Prevent Canine Possession Aggression
- Though it may seem cute, make it very clear this behavior is unacceptable
- It's best to envolve you and your family members during mealtime
- Pet your dog while he's eating
- Feed your dog after you and your family eat ( mentally conditions your dog that you are the "alpha dog" or leader of the pack)
- NEVER let your dog win his privacy or force you to back off through growling. This reinforces the behavior and he assumes the "threat" was averted thus, making him do it again next time.
- If your dog is directing this behavior to other dogs, I would suggest feeding them in separate rooms or in their crates.
- Exchange some of your dogs favorite items with even better ones. This reduces the Negative association with you taking something away
- Yank on your Dogs collar every time it displays such behavior, weather it be with his toys or at mealtime.
If This problem persists an is to the point of making you fearful and concerned for your safety, I would recommend seeking the help of a professional dog trainer.
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