05-15-2017, 02:48 AM
Many dogs who have known trauma, or are low, upset or afraid, will learn to respond if the human lets interaction be on the dog's terms, not theirs. Sometimes just the gentle presence of a human -not interfering with them at all, or overwhelming them with 'love', can help.
Sometimes just sitting near them and allowing them to move away (and return) as they wish will also help.
Reading to them or talking gently helps too.
And as for food aggression...I was the only person or other animal Misty would allow near her food, or even in the space where she ate her food. (Except for treat donations which were graciously accepted from anyone! lol) But to her, her food and water bowls were serious and sacred.
I could do what I liked with her food but she would growl a warning if any other 'intruder' went near her food.
I understoood that about her, never chastised her for it, and thanked her for trusting me.
She learned that behaviour from her life on the streets. Although she was sweet and friendly to all others she met, when there was no food involved.
I understand a dog who has 'food aggression'. It doesn't upset me.
Sometimes just sitting near them and allowing them to move away (and return) as they wish will also help.
Reading to them or talking gently helps too.
And as for food aggression...I was the only person or other animal Misty would allow near her food, or even in the space where she ate her food. (Except for treat donations which were graciously accepted from anyone! lol) But to her, her food and water bowls were serious and sacred.
I could do what I liked with her food but she would growl a warning if any other 'intruder' went near her food.
I understoood that about her, never chastised her for it, and thanked her for trusting me.
She learned that behaviour from her life on the streets. Although she was sweet and friendly to all others she met, when there was no food involved.
I understand a dog who has 'food aggression'. It doesn't upset me.
