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| © All Things Dog Blog Three Dogs Can Wait Permission to Eat |
Well I sure did open a can of worms last week. You guys nailed me. Not in the comments, but in my email. Apparently there are a few of you out there that have concerns over food aggression with your Fidos. Say no more. This is a great topic for our Weekly Wag feature that focuses on bonding with your dog.
When I spoke about shared food last week, I neglected to do my duty with a disclaimer. Obviously, if your dog has displayed any amount of food aggression, sharing is not a good idea. Let's talk about the steps involved in assuring that your dog gets the message about food aggression, and learns that this is not acceptable nor necessary in your home.
- Start with rule #1: never leave food out all day, even if you only have one dog.
- In the case of multiple dogs in your home, please separate them during feeding time.
- Teach your dog that you are in control of the food and that he earns it from you with his behavior. Don't ask for it; require it. Sit. Stay. Leave it, until you give permission.
- Offer your release command and then allow your dog to eat. Praise him when he successfully waits for permission.
- When handing out treats, use the same strategy. Allow your dog to earn it from you, the owner of the treat. Ask for any behavior your choose. When you get it, offer the treat as a reward.
- With practice this will become routine and the message will be clear. You own the food and you share it because you have a bond with this pet that gives you the same respect in exchange.
- Need more help? Check out this article: Who Owns the Dog Food at Your House?
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| © All Things Dog Blog Proof Positive: No Food Aggression |
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