Fighting over dog food, bones, & treats
Dr. Jeff Nichol, DVM, IAABC Veterinary Behaviorist
Dogs seem to believe that famine is imminent. Some will fight tooth and nail with their housemates for the tiniest tid bit. Do you stand guard, yell or punish? Everybody can eat in peace. Don’t risk food-related aggression. Feed your dogs twice daily at the same time but only after each is securely isolated in a room all alone. Fetch the bowls from a closed cabinet and deliver their individual feasts one room at a time. After each eater has belched and wiped her mouth on her sleeve (or had plenty of time to finish) you can retrieve each bowl while leaving its owner still in her feeding room. Only allow the diners to comingle for a cigar in the drawing room after all the dishes have been hidden away in a closed cabinet.
Related Posts
About the author
Dr. Jeff Nichol, DVM, IAABC is a residency trained veterinary behaviorist whose practice is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of behavior disorders of dogs and cats. With extensive experience in general practice and behavior medicine, he works with pet parents to tailor practical, individualized treatment plans to improve the well-being of pets and their people.
Dr. Nichol regularly writes about the treatment of behavior problems, including anxiety, aggression, fear, separation, house soiling, and other common concerns in companion pets.
