Food aggression, also known as canine possession aggression, can be a definite problem. Usually a dog with food aggression sees family members as threats who may try to take his food or toy away. Your instinct might be to take away the food or toy if your dog growls or glares at you. However, that just confirms your dog’s suspicion — that you are a dirty rotten food and toy taker.
You can prevent food aggression from becoming a problem if you start with a puppy. The family should be present in the room at feeding time. Occasionally, approach the bowl and add a little treat. This helps your dog learn that company during meals is not just okay — it can actually be great. Try to have your family members take turns preparing your puppy’s food, so she learns that it is acceptable for anyone to touch her bowl.
If you’ve brought an adult dog into the home, it will take a little more time and patience to deal with food aggression. A four step plan can help you resolve food aggression in a couple of months.
STEP ONE: Go bowless. For the first two weeks, feed your dog by hand. Place a few kibbles in the palm of your hand and let him eat.
STEP TWO: The empty bowl. Place the bowl on the floor, empty. Walk by and drop a small handful of kibbles into the bowl, and let your dog eat it. Wait a minute, then give him another handful. Repeat until the whole meal has been eaten. Do this for another two weeks or so.
STEP THREE: The bowl is half full. Put half of dinner in the bowl and put it on the floor for your dog. Walk by and add some treats — something special that is better than basic kibbles. Maybe some shredded chicken, or bits of a turkey hotdog. Wait a minute, then add the rest of the dinner portion to the bowl. Stick with step three for two more weeks.
STEP FOUR: Resisting temptation. Ask your dog to sit and make him stay while you place a full bowl on the floor. Give him a cheerful “go ahead” and let him eat. Once or twice a week, call him away from his bowl and reward him with a super special treat.
Don’t be afraid to ask for professional help. Your veterinarian or local shelter can point you towards a reputable dog trainer or animal behaviorist if you can’t handle food aggression on your own.