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My Labrador growls at cats near his food bowl. Is it resource guarding?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 5 years and 6 months old | 128 lbs

My 5 year old lab has started growling at the cats when they walk by his food bowl. He has always been around cats . Is it just jealousy or should I be concerned?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on November 29th, 2018

It sounds like resource guarding, which should always be taken seriously. Is it an option to put the cats away while Sinbad is eating? Or feed him in a kennel or separate room? I would worry about a kid (or child or adult) getting too close and him snapping at them. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/food-guarding

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