Breaking a Dog From Charging for Food

Dogs can exhibit aggression in many different ways. One type of aggression is food aggression where the dog charges, attacks or growls. This can happen when food is provided or when someone comes close to the dog when it is eating or around food. This type of behavior can usually be changed with behavior modification through dog training.

  1. Root of Aggression

    • Dogs have a pack attitude where the individuals in their sphere of influence must have clear, defined roles. In a dog pack, or household, someone has to be the leader and others are subordinate. The dog's owner must make it clear to the dog that they are the pack leader and the dog is the subordinate. In other cases, the dog may have been neglected by their previous owners. Food may have been withheld or abuse may have occurred during meal times. Dogs need a sense of safety, security and stability to know that their needs will be fulfilled without the threat of injury.

    Developing a Pack

    • The best way to develop a pack attitude in your household is to think like a pack. Pack leaders or alphas have the best of everything. They sleep and rest in the best spots, eat the best food and are the first in line when traveling. Eat your food first and restrict your dog from laying on your bed or furniture to make sure the dog knows some things are off-limits. When you offer food, serve the dog food that is different than yours.

    Working for It

    • Dogs should not feel that they are entitled to their food. They should have to work for it, much like a member of the pack must work for their share of the kill. Teach your dog the two simple commands of "Sit" and "Stay". Prepare the food and have it ready for the dog. Make the dog sit and then stay for a few seconds before allowing them access to the food. If these two commands are not followed, the dog should have to wait for their food. These commands can be strengthened by using them during play time and with toys. The dog will quickly learn that you are in command of all things and that they will eat only with your permission.

    Curbing Abusive Memories

    • Teaching your dog that you are in control may seem like abuse to some individuals. This is not abuse unless it is coupled with negative verbal exchanges or physical injuries. At no time during training should you injure or yell at the dog. You must also realize that once the dog has access to the food, it is their food. Pay attention to their physical and verbal cues before trying to approach a dog who is eating. Spend time in the dog's area while eating and slowly come closer and closer as the dog becomes more familiar and accepting of your presence. Eventually you should be able to touch and move the dogs food using patience and positive reinforcement.