How Can I Stop My Dog From Being Food Aggressive?

Food aggression is a dangerous symptom of a larger problem -- your dog thinks he or she is the "alpha," or leader of your pack. Dogs are pack animals, meaning they base their behavior on the hierarchy of their group -- in this case your family. A dog should not be growling or snapping at others during feeding time. First of all, consider finding help from a trained professional. This problem needs to be addressed right away, and not only in regards to feeding. Your dog should be a calm, submissive follower, and you should use your time during walks to reclaim your place as the dominant alpha or leader of your pack.

Instructions

  1. Work with a Pro

    • 1

      Find a professional dog trainer in your local Yellow Pages or through an online search.

    • 2

      Check to see if the trainer is certified by the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors and/or has references that you can call.

    • 3

      Allow the professional trainer to try more dangerous methods, like taking away a growling dog's food, before you try any such techniques yourself.

    • 4

      Maintain the training regime long after the training session is finished. Consistency is key in not allowing the dog's dominance to return.

    Tips for Meal Times

    • 5

      Hand-feed your dog for a while before reintroducing the feeding bowl on your terms.

    • 6

      Drop treats into the feeding bowl as you pass it in the house to get the dog to think of you walking toward the feeding bowl as a positive experience.

    • 7

      Take away the feeding food bowl the moment the dog is finished eating. Dominant dogs should not be allowed to eat whenever they want.

    • 8

      Keep children far away from a dog's eating area. Their behavior can unsettle a dog who is looking for consistency and predictability.

    Establish Your Dominance through Walks

    • 9

      Purchase a training lead for walks. As there are many types of training leads, have someone at the pet store explain and demonstrate how each lead works.

    • 10

      Use the lead to enforce a "sit" command whenever it is tugged or snapped. Practice walking in circles in your own house before using it outside, randomly snapping to enforce a sit.

    • 11

      Enforce a "sit" before opening the door, and again before walking down any front steps.

    • 12

      Enforce a "sit" every time you would like to stop, for instance before crossing the street.

    • 13

      Enforce a "sit" each time your dog deviates from a calm submissive state, for instance if your dog tries to walk in front of you, begins to sniff around or tries to run toward another dog or person.