Q: I would really like to see if Marlene has any tips on how to curb or correct food aggression. We see it so commonly with our rescue dogs. It can become a big problem with large dogs being fostered in a home with other dogs. This sometimes causes a foster to be returned or lower their chances for adoption. —Laura B. A: Food aggression is a relatively common behavior. It can range from mild tension to serious aggression. All dogs in your home should be taught to back away and wait for food. Begin with an empty bowl, say “wait” and add a bit of kibble, release and let him eat. Repeat several times. Then incorporate walk-byes. While the dog is eating kibble approach with much higher value treats
(chicken or ham) and add it to his bowl. Slowly add distractions such as: a dog on leash or another human to both exercises. The dog comes to realize humans and dogs close to his bowl make good things happen. Find more information about behavior modification for Resource Guarding on my website: www.PawsitiveSolutionsSite.com Q: How do I get my little dog, 3 yrs old, to stop barking at every sound she hears—Colleen D. A: Barking is a form of dog communication and often little dogs talk too much. Figure out what sounds are triggering your dog to bark. Then recreate these sounds in a training session and work on rewarding “Quiet”. Be patient! Exercise and basic training will also be keys to your success. Marlene Ring is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Professional Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). Her Dog Training business “PAWSitive Solutions Dog & Puppy Training” has been offering positive training for 13 years. Marlene shares her life with two rescue dogs, Dakota and Bliss.
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WITH MARLENE RING, CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINER (CPDT-KA)
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