How to fix food aggression in dogs

If your dog is food aggressive, you’re not alone. Many dogs can be protective of their food, but this behavior can be managed. Here are six tips to help reduce food aggression:

1. Stay in the Room

Stay near your dog while she eats. This helps her feel safe, knowing her food won’t be taken. It also lets you monitor her eating pace to prevent bloat.

2. Talk to Your Dog

Stand near her and talk calmly while she eats. This helps her associate your presence with positive, non-threatening behavior. Watch her body language for signs of discomfort and step back if needed.

3. Practice with Treats

Start by practicing near her while she eats a single treat. This is less stressful for her and helps her realize food isn’t under threat.

4. Try Hand-Feeding

Hand-feeding can build trust and teach her that you touching her food is okay. If she’s not comfortable with kibble, try high-value treats or wet food.

5. Touch Her Bowl

Once she’s comfortable with your presence, gently touch her bowl while she eats. This helps her get used to you being close to her food without reacting aggressively.

6. Remove Food Gradually

After touching the bowl, practice taking a few pieces of food away. Make sure she’s comfortable with this step before trying it regularly.

If these tips don’t work, consult a professional for additional help, including possible medication recommendations from your vet.