Do Dogs Grow Out of Resource Guarding?

You’re reaching for your dog’s chew toy, and suddenly they freeze, growl, or even snap. Or maybe they hover over their food bowl like it’s buried treasure. If this sounds familiar, you’re likely dealing with resource guarding - and you’re not alone.

Many dog owners wonder if this behavior is just a passing phase. Will my dog grow out of it?

The short answer: not usually - at least, not without help.

Let’s talk about what resource guarding really is, why it happens, and what you can do to manage it safely and effectively.

What Is Resource Guarding?

Resource guarding is when a dog shows defensive behavior over something they see as valuable - food, toys, a bed, a stick, or even a favorite person. Common signs include:

• Growling or stiffening when approached
• Eating faster when someone nears their bowl
• Snapping, lunging, or biting
• Hiding items or guarding them with their body

To a dog, this isn’t about being "dominant" or "bad". It's about feeling insecure and worried that something important is going to be taken away.

Do Puppies Grow Out of It?

Not exactly.

Some puppies may show mild signs of resource guarding as they learn about the world and how to interact with others. And yes, sometimes it fades as they gain confidence in their routine and environment.

But in most cases, resource guarding doesn’t simply go away with age. In fact, if left unaddressed, it often becomes more intense as the dog matures.

So if you’re noticing guarding behaviors in your puppy or new rescue, it’s better to take action early before it becomes a habit.

Why Do Dogs Guard Resources?

There are a few common reasons:

• Instinct: In the wild, guarding food or prized items can mean survival.
• Past experiences: Dogs who were underfed, had to compete for food, or had things taken from them often learn to protect what’s “theirs.”
• Lack of trust: If a dog isn’t sure they’ll get something back, they’re more likely to defend it.

Even in loving homes, a dog might start guarding if they feel uncertain - especially during big changes like moving, adding a new pet, or transitioning from a shelter.

Can You Train It Out of Them?

Yes - with patience and the right approach, resource guarding can absolutely be improved.

Here’s what helps:

• Don’t punish. Yelling, grabbing the item, or physically correcting your dog can make the behavior worse. It adds fear to an already stressed situation.
• Use positive reinforcement. Help your dog associate people near their resources with good things - treats, praise, or even better rewards.
• Practice trading up. Teach your dog that when you take something, they get something better in return. Over time, they’ll see sharing as a good thing.
• Work with a professional. Especially if the guarding involves growling or biting, a certified trainer or behaviorist can guide you safely through it.

With consistency, many dogs learn to relax around food and toys again - but it takes time, and progress is gradual.

Can Resource Guarding Come Back?

Yes - even after training, it can return during stressful periods or if routines change. That’s why it’s important to keep reinforcing good habits and avoid creating situations that feel threatening or competitive to your dog.

Think of it like teaching manners: you don’t just teach them once and expect them to last forever. You gently reinforce them as needed.

It’s Not Just a Phase - But It Is Manageable

So, do dogs grow out of resource guarding? Not usually - but they can absolutely grow through it with the right guidance.

With a calm, consistent approach and a bit of expert support when needed, you can help your dog feel safe, secure, and confident enough to share their world without fear. And that’s a win for both of you.