Dogs have a natural instinct to guard their home and those they love. Dogs cannot communicate like people, so we must learn to interpret their behavior and signals. Growling, baring their teeth and barking are natural ways for a dog to warn other animals or people to keep their distance. Retraining a dog to stop guarding its space and growling requires patience and consistency. You must replace the unwanted behaviors with desirable behavior. You must assure the dog it is safe and loved, and that its basic needs, including food, water and shelter, are always provided.
Things You'll Need
- Dog treats
- Muzzle (optional)
- Gloves (optional)
- Leash
Instructions
Reward Good Behavior
Isolate the dog you are working with so it is not distracted or threatened by other dogs. Work with only one dog at a time. Eliminate other possible distractions if possible, such as traffic noise, children, other animals or enticing smells. Protect yourself at all times. Be ready to withdraw your hand quickly if the dog tries to bite. Use a muzzle at first if necessary. Approach dogs slowly, making sure they see and hear you coming. Never reach into a cage, crate or other enclosure.
Give the dog a treat when it does not guard its space or growl. Ignore the dog when it guards or growls. Wait a few seconds and give the dog another treat if it continues to be calm and non-aggressive. Speak gently and firmly. Stay calm at all times and do not startle the dog with sudden movements or sharp or loud noises.
Take breaks. Work in short intervals, just a few minutes at first, and then take the dog for a walk or let it run around freely within a fenced yard. Repeat the training several times every day. Provide the dog with water at all times. When you return after a break, begin the process of rewarding the dog when it does not guard or growl again. Leave the dog, and when you return, reward it if it does not guard its space or growl. Gradually increase the time interval between sessions.
Identify Possible Reasons
Identify any reasons the dog may be guarding its space or growling. The dog may be in pain or have a medical problem. A female dog might be protecting her puppies. A dog that was caged, neglected or otherwise abused may not have had positive or fun interactions with people or other dogs, and may have had to guard its space to eat or survive.
Ask your veterinarian for advice on whether or when to neuter or spay your dog. Neutered dogs are usually less aggressive, and this could take care of the aggressive behavior.
Socialize your dog. As your dog becomes less protective, introduce it to other dogs in a neutral space such as a public dog park. Be ready to restrain your dog and remove it from others if necessary. Gradually increase the amount of time your dog plays with other dogs. Continue to reward your dog with praise when it behaves in a friendly or calm manner.