Dogs often protect objects and boundaries inside and outside their home, but what is sometimes called 'territorial' aggression is a complex and at times dangerous behavior that is best addressed with the help of a qualified, positive dog trainer.
What is 'Territorial' Aggression?
Some dogs guard resources that are important to them, including food, toys, beds, or people. Aggressively protecting the home or outdoor territory is a similar behavior, but occurs on a much larger scale, usually along and among the territorial boundaries of a garden, car, yard or home.
Dogs that protect these places usually bark intensely when someone or another dog approaches. They might bark and run along fence lines, charging at--or sometimes biting—whoever or whatever intrudes on the area they are protecting.
Dogs that behave this way are often labeled as dominant, but like resource guarders, these dogs are most often insecure and fearful, trying to manage access to their yard or home to feel safe and survive. While it looks like dogs are protecting territory and resources within that territory, it could be that they are feeling threatened and fear for their own safety. Any unwanted visitor on the dog’s territory is seen as a threat to that safety.
When should I consult a trainer?
If your dog is aggressively protecting objects, people or territory, it is crucial to get the help of a qualified positive trainer as these behaviors can be very dangerous. A trainer will guide you through the appropriate management, training, and behavior modification methods needed to address all the contributing factors.
A positive trainer will:
- Work with you to change your dog’s reaction to triggers that set off the aggressive response, whether those triggers are a dog, human, or other stimulus approaching your dog’s environment.
- Give you workable management strategies to ensure your dog remains under threshold, is safe, and does not feel threatened when someone comes onto your property or walks by your car.
- Develop a plan that teaches appropriate behaviors in response to your guidance.
- Help your dog stay calm when a dog or person approaches or enters the home, garden or yard, and give tips on how to keep your dog and guests safe when they come onto your property or walk by your car.
Bottom line
A dog that behaves aggressively towards strangers on their property can be dangerous and a huge liability for homeowners. If the behavior goes unchecked, the behavior is likely to get worse and this puts visitors at risk.
Get help sooner than later, so you can begin to manage your dog’s environment, increase her confidence, and set everyone up for safety and success.
