Hi, Here Cecilia from Southernwind , I often receive calls and texts from Concerned dog owners dealing with common issues, one of them is when a dog plays with them with a toy or a ball and then he wont release the ball or toy, or pillow, this Behavior is rooted in the dog's instincts to see these items as prey and to fiercely guard them.
When a dog refuses to release a ball, rag, or bite pillow, it often sees these items as prey and instinctively resists giving them up. This behavior can be particularly pronounced in dogs with strong prey drives or tough temperaments, making them less responsive to corrections. These dogs may even learn to endure corrections to retain their prized possession, entering a trance-like state during such interactions.
Understanding the Behavior: Scientific Insights
1. **Prey Drive and Possessiveness:**
Dogs are descendants of wolves, and many behaviors seen in dogs today can be traced back to their wild ancestors. The drive to chase, capture, and hold onto prey is deeply ingrained. When a dog latches onto a toy, they often see it as their "prey," triggering a natural instinct to protect it. Studies in canine behavior have shown that this prey drive can be incredibly strong, especially in working breeds like German Shepherds, which have been selectively bred for tasks that involve high drive and tenacity.
2. **Neurochemical Response:**
The act of capturing and holding onto prey items can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This neurochemical reward reinforces the behavior, making the dog more likely to repeat it. Dogs may enter a trance-like state as their focus narrows and they become engrossed in the act of holding onto their toy.
3. **Learned Behavior and Endurance:**
Some dogs learn that enduring corrections results in retaining their prized possession. This learned behavior can be difficult to break, as the dog has associated persistence with a positive outcome. Behavioral conditioning plays a significant role here, and understanding this can help in devising effective training strategies.
Preventing and Dealing with the Behavior
1. **Building Trust and Respect:**
A strong handler-dog relationship is crucial. Trust and respect form the foundation of effective training. Positive reinforcement methods, consistency, and patience are key. Avoid using harsh corrections, which can damage the bond and lead to increased possessiveness or anxiety.
2. **Training with Low-Value Toys:**
Start retraining with low-value toys in a calm, distraction-free setting. This reduces the dog's instinct to guard the item fiercely. Gradually introduce higher-value items as the dog learns to release on command.
3. **Teaching the "Release" Command:**
Starting EARLY in age, use a consistent command, such as "drop it" or "release," paired with a treat or another toy as a reward. When the dog releases the item, immediately give the reward and praise the dog. This positive reinforcement helps the dog associate releasing the item with a positive outcome. This may not work at an older age for the instinct is deeply seeded in and other techniques may have to be used, sometimes the substitute of the same toy luring him to drop the first and then receiving the reward to have the second toy. There are numerous techniques available today, and we recommend reaching out to a professional trainer with high qualifications who has a proven track record of trialing and titling many dogs.
4. **Re-engagement as a Reward:**
After the dog releases the toy, allow them to re-engage with it as a reward. This teaches the dog that releasing the item does not mean losing it permanently, reducing anxiety around giving up possessions.
Some Years ago I was in a Seminar with Ivan Balabanov Training Without Conflict with my dog Waiko, who had this same conflict and Ivan brought into the Table a wonderful solution and scientific explanation on how the dog mind works when he enters that trance and how to negotiate with him to the point the dog releases on his own willingly and creates a stronger bond with the owner.
5. **Managing Access to Toys:**
Put toys away after training sessions to prevent possession issues. By controlling access to toys, you can manage the dog's behavior and reduce instances of possessiveness.
6. **Professional Assistance:**
If the behavior persists, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide tailored advice and strategies based on your dog's specific needs.
There are really great true experienced Professionals in the field with many years of experience and successful achievements we can name a few Professionals we recommend: ( Contact us for more information)
DSWK-Franco (Bebo) Santana- DSWK/TNk9
Ivan Balabanov Training Without Conflict
Yvan Granados Down Right Dog Training
Richard Bonilla -The Dog Training Clinic
Conclusion
Resolving possessive behavior in dogs requires a comprehensive approach that combines understanding the underlying instincts, building a strong relationship based on trust, and implementing consistent training techniques. By starting with low-value items, teaching the release command, and managing access to toys, owners can effectively address this behavior. Always remember to consult a professional trainer for personalized advice and guidance.
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