Why does my dog attack my other dog over food?

Canine possession aggression is also sometimes referred to as food aggression or resource guarding. If your dog has this problem, it may growl, snap, or bite to protect a resource, such as food, toys, beds, or other objects, from being taken away by another dog or person. This is the dog’s way of saying, “Back off!

Why are my dogs starting to fight over food?

Dogs compete for food even when there is plenty around. This is natural dog behavior. They may also compete for other resources, like toys or beds, but food is guaranteed to be the most problematic. The higher valued the food item – the worse the aggression.

How do I train my dog not to be possessive of other dogs?

How To Correct A Possessive Dog

1. Introduce the promise of good things.
2. Reward patience and good behavior.
3. Show ownership.
4. Teach “leave” and “give” commands.
5. When to consult with a trainer.

How do you make my dog stop attacking my other dog?

If available, spraying them down can be considered.

1. Spray water from a garden hose at the heads of the dogs. Aim specifically for the eyes and nose of the more aggressive dog, if possible.
2. Citronella spray like Spray Shield or vinegar spray in the face may break up a less-intense fight but usually not the worst fights.

Should you let two dogs fight it out?

The dogs give each other warnings, like a growl or a curled lip, when one has annoyed the other. And warnings happen only occasionally. You should only let your dogs work out their own arguments if there’s not much to work out in the first place.

Should I punish my dog for fighting?

Should I punish my dogs when they are challenging each other? Punishment should be avoided. The dog-dog relationship will not be improved if you scold, punish or hold down a dog as punishment; in fact you may make it worse by punishing the dog for signaling and communicating their aggressive intentions.

How do I get my dogs to stop fighting over food?

If one dog approaches the doorway and will not stop, close the door between them. Transition the dogs into eating in this manner for a few days. Phase 3 – Move both dog bowls into one large room, but place them as far apart as you possibly can. Praise the dogs for not interacting with each other while eating.

How do you stop a dog from being territorial over food?

If you notice that your dog stiffens his body or hunches over his food bowl, he is conveying a need to protect his chow. Dr. Horwitz suggests you prepare the food in different rooms and vary where you serve his meal in your home to reduce his territorial tendencies. Set a time limit for meal consumption.

How do you feed two dogs at the same time?

Feed them separately. Food is a big stressor for dogs. Don’t force your two dogs to eat side-by-side or even in the same room or at the same time. Instead, allow your dogs sufficient space to eat their meals so that they aren’t feeling stressed or threatened.

How do you stop a dog from being a possessive eater?

Tone down a possessive eater. If you notice that your dog stiffens his body or hunches over his food bowl, he is conveying a need to protect his chow. Dr. Horwitz suggests you prepare the food in different rooms and vary where you serve his meal in your home to reduce his territorial tendencies.