Food aggression is common in dogs and left unchecked, it can grow into a serious problem. How to stop food aggression is one of the top searches when looking for puppy training and dog training in Galveston, TX.

 

Food aggression, one factor of resource guarding, is behavior such as growling, snapping, or biting when “defending” food bowls or treats.

Signs of food aggression are:

• Growling or teeth baring when a person or other pet approaches the dog while they are eating.

• Guarding the food bowl.

• Snapping or biting when the food bowl or treat is taken away.

• Snapping or biting if petted while eating.

• Stiff, rigid body language with ears laid back and/or fur standing up on the back (hackles).

• Other hostile warnings that say “Reach for it and you’ll draw back a nub…”.

 

Food aggression has many causes including abuse, emotional trauma, surviving a natural disaster (and Galveston, TX has had more than its share), or genetic predisposition, and can start as early as puppyhood.

Medical problems can also contribute, so taking your dog to the vet for an exam and letting your vet know about your dog’s food aggression may lead to some answers.

We may never know the cause of a dog’s food aggression, but it’s a good idea to consult an experienced professional to stop food aggression before it progresses.

 

Try to manage the problem safely until you can get help from a trained professional.

• Feed the dog in a different room or in their crate and have a consistent, scheduled feeding time.

• Pick up food bowls when it is not feeding time.

• Watch your dog's body language.

• Desensitize your dog to the presence of others by standing nearby and talking to your dog while they eat.

• Take it slow and be consistent.

 

Obedience training and puppy training can help stop food aggression, teach your dog to remain calm and in control of their emotions, teach you to establish yourself as the pack leader, build communication pathways, and help grow a powerful bond.

With so many year-round, pet-friendly places and activities, Galveston, TX is a destination hot spot for pet lovers to bring their best animal buddy and hang out with other pet owners, and dog training in Galveston, TX is popular because of this. The island is an excellent place to socialize, but an unruly or aggressive animal is no fun to be around.

 

Taking basic obedience training classes with your dog is money and time well invested which will give you long-term rewards over the years with your pet.

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We offer professional dog training in Galveston, TX which includes obedience training, puppy training, heel on command, how to stop food aggression, and many other valuable services. This will get you both off to the right start and ready to take in all the enjoyment of Galveston, TX together.

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Contact us today to book your 1 HOUR CONSULTATION