Growling

[bannerd]

Hey all, if I take a treat away from my dog or even if I put my hand in his food Koda is fine with that. When someone else does it he growls (specifically my gf). He hasn't bitten anyone yet and is very good with people, in fact loves for anyone to rub his stomach. Any suggestions with this? I try to get her involved but she's scared to put her hands there even when I stand over and watch very close. I would like to correct this now so he's not doing it towards my kids down the road or anyone for that matter.

[Christie M]

Try motivational exchanges. Look at the behavior as fear based vs. domance based. He is afraid that something will be taken away. Get him used to the fact that when he gives something up, something better happens. Have other people start by just walking up, offering a better alternative and then walking away. Work into asking for a behavior, taking away the guarded resource, giving reward and then giving it back. In the beginning its all about building trust, not tolerance.

[bannerd]

So how should I approach it, have her approach koda while he's laying there and show him the high quality treat? Or should I have her call him then do the exchange? I think if it's done in front of him he'll understand better.

Thanks for the advice, I guess it's time to buy some steak

[Christie M]

Depending on how severe it is, I would start by calling him away and then letting him return. If he does that willingly, then you can have her approach.....