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My 8-month-old dog growls and guards food from me. How to stop?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male

its been a few months since my dog is starting to growl at me and guard his food everytime i go near..sometimes he wont eat but just sit near it and wont let me pick it up..even when i try to stop him from something he starts growling and rushes towards me like he is gonna bite..he is 8 1/2 months old.plz help

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 17th, 2017

It's good you are trying to get control of this issue while Bruno is still young. Food guarding or resource guarding can be a serious issue. 1st make sure no children or other pets are around as you try to control this. You can't leave the food or food bowl out for Bruno. This gives him something to guard. Only put it down at meal times and put it down while empty then walk away. Then come back and give him 1-3 pieces In the bowl. Continue to do this so he associates you approaching the food bowl as putting food in not taking it away. Here are some articles with good info. This is a serious behavior issue so if these exercises don't help please seek out a behaviorist who can help with Bruno. http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1740 http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=1462&S=1&SourceID=47 http://www.patriciamcconnell.com/theotherendoftheleash/resource-guarding-treatment-and-prevention

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    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sorry to hear this! Bruno is at an age where he will be trying to find his place in the pack. It sounds like at the moment he thinks he's in charge. This is a serious issue that needs to be dealt with quickly to stop it becoming a dangerous permanent problem. I would look up an animal behaviourist in your area as you could really do with professional help. Otherwise you have to get him used to you lifting his food away from him. You can gradually try and remove the food, when he doesn't react reward him. This will be a difficult problem to overcome I would emphasise the importance of contacting a professional to help you. If Bruno is not castrated it would be a good idea to have this done, reduction in hormones can sometimes help reduce behaviour issues.

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