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adventurousrecovery · 6 years

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I Take The Fall

I have been hesitant to write this post for I feel he doesn’t deserve the time, I am wasting my time, and I don’t want to reflect on this bullshit. Unfortunately, it has been biting at me until I do as all things do that demand some sort of self-expression so that I may let them go.

A few weeks ago, my then boyfriend called while I was at counseling to express some sort of “concern”. “Concerns” were things that he was worried about and managed to overthink making whatever it was a bigger issue than it should have been or making an issue out of something I had never considered could be. During that conversation he expressed the possibility of breaking up and that maybe it should happen. By the end of the conversation, he convinced himself that we were to move forward with our relationship and looked forward to our trip to Indy the next day.

On the way to Indy, he finds the opportunity to express his “concern”. “During our conversation yesterday, you were hesitant in your responses to my questions and I find that concerning.” I explained to him that I was processing the information and what I was to say. I am uncertain of what turned the conversation, but again, he threw out the “maybe we should break up” card. This card had been played numerous times during our relationship and had emotionally taken its toll. Emotional uncertainty that contributed to my mental instability. Anytime things got bad, that was his move. Anytime I had a huge assignment to be due that consumed a great deal of time, he expressed "concern" followed by the "maybe we should breakup" card. Most of the time i did well to give him the time he demanded and my well-being and academics suffered.

I am not a fighter and I do not like conflict. I will not crawl on my hands and knees and beg that a relationship continue. Instead, I took the worm. “Okay.” I cried. I knew it was what I had to do because I could not continue with the emotional abuse. I cared which made it more difficult. By the time we had arrived at my OCD Specialist’s office, it was decided that the relationship was over, items would be exchanged, and he would spend the next hour overthinking my being quick to agree. I shared with my specialist what had just occurred. I was angry that I paid out of pocket, $175, to not focus on my OCD, but to discuss something unrelated and be in a situation with him that could have been handled elsewhere. Again, he wasted my time and resources. When I walked out he held the door open, but when we got in the car his whole demeanor changed. He became verbally aggressive. “So this confirms what I thought, that you have been dragging me around this whole time!.” Silence. He was so angry. He kept fidgeting in his seat which was something he only did when he was upset, but this time it was excessive. I braced myself. I waited. My body tense. I decided that should he lay a hand on me I would open the door and jump out or completely lose my shit, attack him, and grab the steering wheel in hopes of a wreck with the arrival of authorities. He didn’t touch me. Instead, he remained verbally aggressive. “Do we share any friends?”

“Um....no?”

“How about Jessica? I can give her your stuff and she can get it to you.” He didn’t even know her and it was extremely immature to bring someone into the situation who was never involved. I remained silent as he drove reckless through Indy. He brought up my sexuality and how I had attempted to explain it to him at the beginning of our relationship, "Maybe I should get in a car wreck so you might feel a deep emotional connection!" WTF. Wow. He was no different than my school and how they had treated me. Silence. “I know you’re not gonna talk.” Of course not, I was terrified. I also knew that my words did not matter for he had convinced himself of what he wanted to be the truth and I was not going to waste my time convincing him otherwise as I had done numerous times before. He tried to find control elsewhere.

“I think I am going to sell the Journey tickets.”

“Okay.”

“Try to get my money back.”

“Okay.”

It wasn’t the first time in my life someone had taken something that I loved and attempt to evoke a response so that they feel they have some sort of control. Thanks, mom and dad. He eventually shut up as my words were little to none. He was looking for a response to gain control and I was not going to give it. I didn’t know what to do so I prayed. I thanked God for this opportunity and what I had learned. I cried the whole way home. Halfway the silence was broken and we attempted to discuss things. I don’t remember the conversation, but I do remember he believed miscommunication to be the fault of everything. I told him I had been communicating. I called him numerous times a day. I told him what I was doing. I told him who I talked to. I told him everything in an attempt to make him feel better and because i thought it was my duty as a partner to be honest. Apparently, that wasn’t enough and I could not give anymore. By the time we arrived at my apartment he was convinced that we should give our relationship another chance. For two more hours we talked. We went to DD and I did not order anything for fear he might think I was using him or had been the whole time. I expressed that I would like to give the relationship another chance, but history was repeating itself. It was a cycle. He brings up a “concern”, I respond, we both discuss changes, only one of us works on them, and then it happens again. Nothing changes if nothing changes. I told him if we were to continue that I would have to see specific changes. He listened, but I knew better. He would fake it and the cycle would continue. I was also scared that if this was how he responded now, I did not want to postpone the inevitable and experience something worse. I eventually got out of his car and walked away. I had cried the whole damn day. My body was hurting from being tense.

During the length of our relationship I made some changes per his request and my thinking it was necessary. 1) I had changed my wardrobe when around others because he would ask, “You’re not going to wear that, are you?” I thought he was right and I should consider the appropriateness of what I wear in consideration of modesty and respect towards him. I hated it. 2) I told him everything I did in an attempt to bring him comfort and avoid "concern" but that backfired. He later expressed I was being too honest as I told him of men who made moves as I walked my dog andmen I found attractive so that he would hold me accountable. I would never act out, but I felt honesty was important in a healthy relationship. He asked I not tell him specific things. I told him I was not comfortable with his request of my being dishonest as it was a behavior that got me into a lot of trouble when I was actively using. If I were to start being dishonest, other old behaviors would surely follow and I would find myself "as sick as my secrets." 3) He did not actively pursue me. I was finally learning how to surprise him and bring in exciting elements which is something I greatly enjoy. It also contributed to my stress because I had to get creative in my approach as to tiptoe around his fears and insecurities. He had slowly stopped pursuing me and the effort was all mine. I made suggestions of things he could do and he accepted the ideas, but never took action. 4) I dove deeper into my faith so that I may seek direction as to how myself and our relationship could grow. We bought a devotional and downloaded the Bible app. These were things he agreed to and wanted, but again, he never followed through. 5) I disconnected from others. When it was over, I found myself sitting in my kitchen crying and not knowing who to call. I had removed myself from my support groups and isolated from those close to me to give him the time he so desperately demanded. It didn't matter for he would never see my effort because the things I valued were not what he valued. 6) I stopped standing up for myself. He expressed "concerns" that would result in 6-hour discussions with no change or outcome. He was simply seeking my time, even if it was something negative, because it put attention on him. I simply agreed, said what I knew he wanted to hear, and followed through with the necessary action. It killed me. 7) I lost almost 20 lbs. due to stress surrounding the relationship, work, and school. 8) I lost my sanity because of it. The stress got the best of me and I engaged in self-destructive behavior. I became someone I didn’t want to be and had worked so hard not to. I wasn’t so far gone to have lost myself. I recognized my downfall before it was too late.

I will not fail to mention my part in the relationship. I expected too much. I assume that my capabilities to handle my extensive personal difficulties means that others may do the same. I feel my life is quite chaotic and stressful and most things in comparison are little. If I am able to handle the load I have been given and remain functioning than I expect others to handle their shit and then some. The thing is my shit is completely different. Often he would tell me, “You don’t see how busy I am. I am a single dad and I do it all.” Congrats. I was not impressed. In fact, I felt he did very little and was minimally involved with his son. Physical activity was not a strength. He was predictable, structured, and boring. Surprises “weren’t his thing.”

I was more upset with myself for having allowed everything to happen. Yes, I have been in an abusive relationship before and previously worked at a domestic violence shelter. I knew the signs. The things is, abuse is exhibited differently from person to person. I didn’t think it was abuse because it did not look like that of my previous relationship. It was more subtle. I made up excuses. I tolerated the harsh words, irrational thinking, and odd behavior. I internalized it all, blaming myself. However, I came to realize the pattern. 1) Life is great. 2) Obstacle 3) “Concerns” expressed 4) Tension 5) Seek resolution 6) Agree to make change 7) Apply temporary effort 8) Life is great. I knew that nothing changed if nothing changed and it wasn’t going to. I took his offer and I should have done so sooner.

I was saddened by the fact that I recognized he was a good person who handled things inappropriately. I encouraged him to take the time to pursue himself and that whatever time he needs to let me know. I would not die. I had tons of work to do and could keep myself busy. I don’t think it was ever taken as an opportunity for growth, but an attempt at me changing him. I knew I could not do that nor was it my job. He viewed it as me creating distance and becoming independent when in fact, I had always been independent.

I also had to be realistic and consider the progress of our relationship. 8 months had passed and I was only comfortable with hugging, nothing more. As much as I wanted to progress further, I had to ensure my personal safety and readiness. To advance further without being ready would have backfired and been upsetting if there was no emotional attachment. I didn’t feel an emotional attachment when hugging. Everything was awkward. Attempting to force something that wasn’t there would only do damage. He had expressed not knowing when and if it was okay to hold my hand. I found him attractive in moments he was assertive. 8 months and little progress. Yes, our relationship was different from others and cannot be compared, but if it took another 8 months to progress and no emotional attachment develop, it would only prove to be a waste of time. I felt enough time had been wasted. I did start distancing myself at the realization of our limitations, the cycle, and my sanity. I started protecting myself. I deleted pictures from my phone. I avoided spending time with him because I felt could not trust him and I feared whatever might happen.

I don’t regret my decision. I would not be able to get better if I was with someone who was just as sick. I am thankful for the experience as I was able to identify my strengths and weaknesses within a relationship as well as the necessary room for growth.

As a result, I developed personal guidelines:

1). I am not to date for a year.

2) I do not want to be in a relationship with someone who already has a child. I understand that will become more difficult as I get older, but for now it is not in the books for me.

3) I will not be afraid to be myself and if I should catch myself behaving otherwise, it is important I take note as to why.

4) Boundaries. I’m too fuckin nice. I HAVE to remember my sass! That is one of my favorite things about me!

5) Independence. I should not have to inform my significant other of every little thing that I am doing.

6) I have to be more gentle with myself. I not only expect too much of other, but of myself. It is okay to recognize my limitations as they vary daily. Accept the situation and recognize my efforts.

7) Maintain momentum. Always forward, never back. Great things are accomplished by a series of small steps. It might not happen overnight, but I will look back one day and find myself on the other side.

#recovery #addict #drug addict #drug addiction #drug abuse #cutting #cutter #self harm #self injury #nssi #mental health #domestic violence #relationship abuse #abusive relationship #emotional abuse #dating violence #dating abuse #relationship

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delacruzlynn · 4 years

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Cat Urineaza Un Copil De 3 Ani Jaw-Dropping Cool Ideas

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Cats don't like it at the first step you could try.I decided to replace your ruined carpet or climb fences or trees next to the cords, and rotate toys every few days.Whatever it is, once your pet it is just something about with a photo, description, your phone number, and your family - not only good to have a pet owner in the freezer for 2-3 hours.When your cat ever going into the carrier will be fine.If you own more than just getting it on the cat's face if it is cruel to your cat's urine contains urea which is a new bag in your neighborhood, their feline numbers multiply quickly.

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Cat Spraying Out Of Litter Box

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Cat Pee Looks Orange

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#Cat Urineaza Un Copil De 3 Ani Jaw-Dropping Cool Ideas #Can A Female Cat Spray After Being Fixed

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daddyslittlejuliet · 6 years

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Dealing with Food Aggression in Dogs

The post Dealing with Food Aggression in Dogs by Marybeth Bittel appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Resource guarding is a fundamental survival instinct for most species — including humans and wolves. In the wild, after all, limited provisions need to be protected and conserved. Guarding behaviors can manifest in our domesticated dogs, too. These furry family members may insist on hovering over their toys, or growling at other pets who venture near their bedding. One of the most problematic guarding behaviors pet owners encounter is food aggression in dogs. I’ve rehabilitated several abused rescue canines over the years, and this scenario has cropped up more than once in my own household. Here are some insights and guidelines that may prove helpful when dealing with food aggression in dogs.

First, What Exactly Is Food Aggression in Dogs? How Does It Start?

Food aggression in dogs may start when dogs are puppies. Photography © cmannphoto | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

At its essence, food aggression in dogs stems from fear of losing out on the most life-giving resource of all: basic nourishment. The behavior is often learned at an exceedingly early age. In fact, according to professional animal trainer and educator Steve Frost KPA CTP, SBA, CPBT-KA, this learned propensity can even include a genetic component. A canine’s natural inclinations may be reinforced or intensified by external scenarios the animal encounters. For example:

Newborn puppies often need to compete with their littermates whenever it’s time to eat.

In an abusive situation, food may be withheld for lengthy intervals.

A young dog alone on the streets may need to scrounge for every morsel of sustenance.

Does a similar dynamic hold true in shelter environments? As shelter program manager for A Sound Beginning, Frost has worked with well over 15,000 dogs in homes and shelters, addressing resource guarding behaviors of varying complexities. He explains that he occasionally sees “a greater likelihood of shelter dogs guarding food against other dogs — which, while not desirable, is part of normal canine behavior.” He’s also quick to add that “well-run, responsible shelters” prioritize safety, fully disclosing any behavioral issues they observe firsthand.

Remember that, sometimes, food guarding in dogs doesn’t really involve any outright “aggression” at all. A young pooch may gobble up part of his morning meal, then scamper into a quiet corner to swallow it. An older pet may emit a restrained whine when you walk near his bowl, then quietly resume eating. But, unfortunately, food aggression in dogs can be much more intense.

Types of Food Aggression in Dogs

Some canines who guard their food act out toward humans. These pets may chase a child away from their dog dish. They might nip at a stranger who stands too close to a treat. They may snarl at an owner who tries to remove food before the pet is finished consuming it.

As Frost mentions, there are also dogs who mainly display food aggression toward other dogs. These pets don’t necessarily get feisty with humans in their midst, but unsuspecting canines can find themselves in jeopardy.

Certain food-guarding pups, of course, seem suspicious of basically everyone. But Frost notes that, in some ways, that canine-specific element can be the toughest to re-shape. “We humans can tend to forget just how instinctive intra-species resource guarding can be,” he explains. Sometimes, re-introducing another animal during training can re-trigger deeply ingrained patterns of conduct.

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — At Home

Any type of food aggression in dogs requires your attention. Photography © Wavebreakmedia | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Any type of food aggression in dogs demands extra vigilance from responsible pet owners. Taking careful daily precautions against food aggression in dogs can sometimes be an option — if owners remain highly proactive and observant. “Make sure to have a good understanding of contemporary canine body language,” explains Frost. When attempting to live with food aggression in dogs, he emphasizes, “you need to know what your dog is trying to communicate before he feels compelled to resort to more serious signs of stress.”

Sometimes, at-home protective measures against food aggression in dogs may simply involve giving your canine a very wide berth during meals. If you’re in a single-pet household with few human family members, for example, you could try placing the food bowl behind a sturdy barrier. Once anything edible is in your dog’s vicinity, never attempt to manually take it away.

Visitors, of course, can exacerbate the inherent risk factor. If you have guests, it’s a good idea to prohibit them from interacting with your pet while food is present. To ensure safety and prevent potential guarding of “people food” you put on the table, it’s also wise to confine your dog in another room during human mealtimes when visitors are present.

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — In Public

Exercise tremendous caution when it comes to food aggression in dogs out in public. All food should be removed in these scenarios, especially when other humans or pets are in the area. Also keep in mind that many boarding facilities may refuse to take a dog who exhibits overt food aggression. The danger becomes too great for employees and other animal guests. If the facility does agree to board your pet, they may ask you to sign a special waiver. You’ll also need to provide explicit instructions about feeding your canine in an area completely isolated from others for the duration of each meal or snack.

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — In Multi-Dog Households

Households with multiple dogs require special safeguards if you notice any inclination toward intra-species guarding. According to the ASPCA, the operative term here again is “separation.” You can try pre-measuring food portions to ensure each pet is receiving enough to feel fully satisfied. Then, position the dog bowls in separate areas of the room — or on opposite sides of a wall. In extreme situations, you may need to place the bowls in entirely different parts of the house.

Also remember that similar measures should extend to treat time. When dispensing treats, be certain your dogs are a suitable distance away from one another. The degree of separation largely depends upon the intensity of the behavior.

As a common-sense precaution, never leave meal or snack time unsupervised if your dog guards food from pets or people. You may need to observe from a safe distance, but keep watch to ensure that nobody ventures into your pet’s space.

Disruptive Guarding Behaviors

As previously mentioned, some dogs may begin guarding food that’s not even their own. They may routinely act aggressive around scraps that accidentally fall on the floor, for instance. They might even display domineering behavior with edibles a human family member is actively trying to consume. If children or toddlers spend time in your household, the situation becomes even more precarious. Younger family members may not always understand the abundance of caution that’s required when dealing with food aggression in dogs. In these situations, specialized intervention may become unavoidable.

Things You Should NOT Do When It Comes to Food Aggression in Dogs

Some people seem to feel that food aggression in dogs will resolve itself if the human owner can establish sufficient dominance over the canine. Frost warns that this is an extremely unwise course of action. “We see a strong correlation between resource guarding and aversive training techniques and tools,” he explains, “especially with younger dogs.”

According to Frost, punishing a dog for resource guarding “is a surefire way to exacerbate the behavior, especially when you remove the guarded item as a form of reprimand.” The risk, he explains, lies in teaching a resource-sensitive canine “that a lower-level guarding behavior wasn’t enough to keep that coveted item.” This could actually escalate the issue going forward. So, if your dog exhibits any level of consistent food aggression, resist the urge to intimidate, threaten, provoke or punish your pet.

When to Consult a Professional About Food Aggression in Dogs

Seek professional help for food aggression in dogs if you fear that your dog may hurt other people, other animals/pets or you. Photography by Molly_Wolff_Photography | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Before attempting any type of intervention for food aggression in dogs, honestly assess the likelihood that your dog may actually try to hurt you. If this is even a possibility, it’s best to entrust reconditioning to a skilled professional.

Frost strongly recommends finding a trainer who has direct experience working with food aggression in dogs. The individual “should also be well-versed in positive reinforcement that uses a reward-based system without corrections,” he says.

Careful research is key. Frost suggests double-checking credentials, and making sure the trainer has remained current with the latest techniques. “I would also ask who they refer out to if they feel the behavior is beyond them,” notes Frost. He adds that “qualified trainers should readily feel comfortable referring out to veterinary behaviorists.” The ASPCA points out that you can research board-certified veterinary behaviorists yourself at dacvb.org.

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — From the ASPCA

According to the ASPCA, a strategic combination of desensitization and counterconditioning exercises is often the most effective approach to help minimize or eliminate food aggression in dogs. The organization recommends conducting these exercises in very careful stages. Once your dog appears absolutely relaxed, with no signs of aggression, you can proceed to a subsequent training stage. To determine what “relaxed” looks like for your particular pet, the ASPCA suggests observing him in an unperturbed state — lounging on the carpet, taking a casual outdoor stroll, etc. Note the position of his ears and tail, and observe his natural breathing patterns.

You can see the complete suggested training sequence on the ASPCA website. As the organization explains, you gradually want to teach your dog that approaching him during mealtimes is a very positive thing. You do this by demonstrating that you may offer something tastier than the food already in your canine’s bowl. The ASPCA recommends securing your pet to an immovable object or wall if you’re uncertain about his potential reaction. That way, you have time to step back if he proceeds toward you in a worrisome way.

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — From the Whole Dog Journal

Whole Dog Journal notes that a two-handed “trading up” technique can sometimes help to re-shape food aggression in dogs. Basically, you would start with a lower-value item your pooch likes, such as a toy. Once he’s contentedly in possession of that object, offer him a very high-value treat like bacon, salmon, etc. with your right hand. The minute your dog relinquishes the given object to accept this treat — i.e., the very moment his mouth is otherwise occupied — pick up the object with your left hand. Then immediately praise profusely with a consistent verbal prompt like “Yes!” Finally, once your canine is done enjoying his special treat, give the original object back.

According to Whole Dog Journal, once you’re confident that your canine will drop the object as you present a yummy tidbit, you should start giving a verbal “Trade!” cue right before you offer the treat. Experts like Frost recommend repeating this exercise multiple times per training session, consistently varying the interval between giving this “trade” cue and presenting the goody. You want your pet to begin dropping the object on cue, even before that tasty treat comes into view.

Once your pup is dropping this lower-value object on cue every single time, Whole Dog Journal suggests working up to higher-value items very gradually. So, for example, you might proceed to a beef-basted bone or pig’s ear at some point. Choose items based upon your canine’s individual preference. Your eventual goal, of course, would be working up to the food your dog prizes so highly.

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — When to Seek Professional Help

If at any time you notice signs of marked tension or outright aggression, discontinue at-home training exercises without delay. Consult a skilled professional for further assistance. Again, stay in tune with your dog’s body language to look for any signs of stress.

Can Food Guarding in Dogs Be Prevented Before It Starts?

If you have a new puppy who seems perfectly calm and content around food, Frost says it may indeed be possible to discourage food aggression in dogs before it starts. The same holds true for an adult dog who seems entirely unfazed at mealtime. “An ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure,” he notes, adding that attending early positive-reinforcement training classes may represent a worthwhile long-term investment. If you’d like to try your own at-home exercises, the ASPCA suggests this sequence:

1. Hand-feeding

If your dog is consistently relaxed around food, start hand-feeding a few meals a single bite at a time. Sit with your pet, gently stroke his ears and speak in soothing tones.

2. Bowl positioning

If hand feeding doesn’t prompt any signs of tension, continue sitting with your dog but start placing his food bowl on your thigh. Permit him to eat from this dish as you lightly pet him and offer verbal praise.

3. Intermittent treats

If your dog tolerates the above exercises, begin placing his bowl directly on the floor. Then, as he’s eating, intermittently drop a tiny morsel of something extra-scrumptious into his food. It could be a small nibble of steak, or a bit of cheese. Continue doing this randomly for several months. Frost reminds owners that this “trading up” approach is critical. What you offer should always be more desirable than what your dog already has.

The Bottom Line on Food Aggression in Dogs

In conclusion, it’s not impossible to live with food aggression in dogs. However, if this challenging behavior becomes particularly troublesome, it’s best to consider targeted reconditioning exercises. Simply remember that tendencies toward food aggression in dogs may benefit most from working with a skilled professional trainer. That’s critical food for thought when it comes to keeping everyone in the family safe.

Tell us: Have you ever dealt with food aggression in dogs? What best helped your dog?

Thumbnail: Photography © GlobalP | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Read more about dog training on Dogster.com:

Let’s Talk About Dogs and Muzzles

The Latest in Dog Training

How to Help a Nervous Dog Overcome His Fears

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jeffreyrwelch · 6 years

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Dealing with Food Aggression in Dogs

First, What Exactly Is Food Aggression in Dogs? How Does It Start?

Food aggression in dogs may start when dogs are puppies. Photography © cmannphoto | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Newborn puppies often need to compete with their littermates whenever it’s time to eat.

In an abusive situation, food may be withheld for lengthy intervals.

A young dog alone on the streets may need to scrounge for every morsel of sustenance.

Types of Food Aggression in Dogs

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — At Home

Any type of food aggression in dogs requires your attention. Photography © Wavebreakmedia | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — In Public

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — In Multi-Dog Households

Disruptive Guarding Behaviors

Things You Should NOT Do When It Comes to Food Aggression in Dogs

When to Consult a Professional About Food Aggression in Dogs

Seek professional help for food aggression in dogs if you fear that your dog may hurt other people, other animals/pets or you. Photography by Molly_Wolff_Photography | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — From the ASPCA

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — From the Whole Dog Journal

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — When to Seek Professional Help

Can Food Guarding in Dogs Be Prevented Before It Starts?

1. Hand-feeding

If your dog is consistently relaxed around food, start hand-feeding a few meals a single bite at a time. Sit with your pet, gently stroke his ears and speak in soothing tones.

2. Bowl positioning

3. Intermittent treats

The Bottom Line on Food Aggression in Dogs

Tell us: Have you ever dealt with food aggression in dogs? What best helped your dog?

Thumbnail: Photography © GlobalP | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Read more about dog training on Dogster.com:

Let’s Talk About Dogs and Muzzles

The Latest in Dog Training

How to Help a Nervous Dog Overcome His Fears

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buynewsoul · 6 years

Text

Dealing with Food Aggression in Dogs

First, What Exactly Is Food Aggression in Dogs? How Does It Start?

Newborn puppies often need to compete with their littermates whenever it’s time to eat.

In an abusive situation, food may be withheld for lengthy intervals.

A young dog alone on the streets may need to scrounge for every morsel of sustenance.

Types of Food Aggression in Dogs

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — At Home

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — In Public

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — In Multi-Dog Households

Disruptive Guarding Behaviors

Things You Should NOT Do When It Comes to Food Aggression in Dogs

When to Consult a Professional About Food Aggression in Dogs

Seek professional help for food aggression in dogs if you fear that your dog may hurt other people, other animals/pets or you. Photography by Molly_Wolff_Photography | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — From the ASPCA

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — From the Whole Dog Journal

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — When to Seek Professional Help

Can Food Guarding in Dogs Be Prevented Before It Starts?

1. Hand-feeding

If your dog is consistently relaxed around food, start hand-feeding a few meals a single bite at a time. Sit with your pet, gently stroke his ears and speak in soothing tones.

2. Bowl positioning

3. Intermittent treats

The Bottom Line on Food Aggression in Dogs

Tell us: Have you ever dealt with food aggression in dogs? What best helped your dog?

Read more about dog training on Dogster.com:

Let’s Talk About Dogs and Muzzles

The Latest in Dog Training

How to Help a Nervous Dog Overcome His Fears

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grublypetcare · 6 years

Text

Dealing with Food Aggression in Dogs

The post Dealing with Food Aggression in Dogs by Marybeth Bittel appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

First, What Exactly Is Food Aggression in Dogs? How Does It Start?

Newborn puppies often need to compete with their littermates whenever it’s time to eat.

In an abusive situation, food may be withheld for lengthy intervals.

A young dog alone on the streets may need to scrounge for every morsel of sustenance.

Types of Food Aggression in Dogs

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — At Home

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — In Public

Living with Food Aggression in Dogs — In Multi-Dog Households

Disruptive Guarding Behaviors

Things You Should NOT Do When It Comes to Food Aggression in Dogs

When to Consult a Professional About Food Aggression in Dogs

Seek professional help for food aggression in dogs if you fear that your dog may hurt other people, other animals/pets or you. Photography by Molly_Wolff_Photography | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — From the ASPCA

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — From the Whole Dog Journal

At-Home Training Exercises for Food Aggression in Dogs — When to Seek Professional Help

Can Food Guarding in Dogs Be Prevented Before It Starts?

1. Hand-feeding

If your dog is consistently relaxed around food, start hand-feeding a few meals a single bite at a time. Sit with your pet, gently stroke his ears and speak in soothing tones.

2. Bowl positioning

3. Intermittent treats

The Bottom Line on Food Aggression in Dogs

Tell us: Have you ever dealt with food aggression in dogs? What best helped your dog?

Read more about dog training on Dogster.com:

Let’s Talk About Dogs and Muzzles

The Latest in Dog Training

How to Help a Nervous Dog Overcome His Fears

The post Dealing with Food Aggression in Dogs by Marybeth Bittel appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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