My dogs are possessive over toys. How to stop growling?

Question

We got rescue dog yesterday. Same age as my dog, no past traumas, healthy, playful. Both females, they get along good, they play together. She is mixed breed, mine is German Shepherd. But both of them are quite possessive over toys/food. Especially chewing ones. All the toys are my dogs. So when new dog takes her toy, she growls and shows teeth, takes toy away. Rescue dog just shows teeth when mine does that. They don't fight. What should I do? Should I get fresh toys for new dog? Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 1 year and 6 months old | 66 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

This is not unusual behavior as they are trying to work things out. I recommend to always supervise them together until you know there is not chance of a fight. Some dogs are more possessive of toys or food or their person and thats just how they are. Certainly not leaving toys down and only giving them toys when you are home to supervise will help. Do not allow them to steal each other's toys. Also, both dogs will likely think ALL the toys belong to themselves and not the other dog. If you cannot supervise then, you may separate them during chew times with their toys. Heavy daily exercise will help to get some of the energy out and this can help to decrease aggression. I also recommend to pick up some books about dog behavior so that you can recognize what the dogs are saying to each other. Lastly, there are several different training methods out there. You may opt to find a trainer who can come to your house and show you how to modify the dogs' behavior. Find a trainer who's style works with yours. This will take some time to condition the dogs and yourself. I hope this at least points you in the right direction. Please post again with any further questions.

My dogs are possessive over toys. How to stop growling?

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