Why Does My Dog Guard Food, Toys, or the Couch?
If your dog growls, stiffens, or snaps when someone approaches their food, toys, or favorite resting spot, it can feel worrying. Many dogs show “guarding” behaviors at some point, but not all guarding looks the same.
In fact, there are several different reasons dogs act this way.
Understanding which type of guarding you’re seeing is the first step to helping your dog feel more secure.
Understanding which type of guarding you’re seeing is the first step to helping your dog feel more secure.
1. Resource guarding
This is what most people think of when they hear the term “guarding.” Resource guarding happens when a dog feels the need to protect something valuable—like food, a toy, or even a space on the couch.
What it looks like:
Stiffening or hovering over the item
Growling, snarling, or showing teeth as you get near the item
Snapping if someone tries to take it
Resource guarding is a natural instinct, but it can escalate quickly if ignored. Training focuses on changing how the dog feels about people approaching so they no longer see it as a threat.
👉 If this sounds like your dog, see our page on Resource Guarding Training in Chicago.
2. Protective or territorial behavior
Sometimes dogs guard not because of an object, but because they feel protective of their space or their people. This is less about “owning” something and more about managing social dynamics.
What it looks like:
Barking or growling when someone comes to the door
Blocking access to certain areas of the house
Getting tense or positioning themselves between you and a stranger
MYTH BUSTER: This isn’t about “dominance.”
Instead, it often comes from a sense of responsibility. Some dogs believe they need to take on the role of protector or decision-maker, especially if they’re uncertain about what you expect from them.
When a dog feels like they’re in charge of safety or boundaries, it can create stress and overreactions. The goal of training in these cases is to gently shift that responsibility back to you, so your dog can relax and feel secure knowing you’ve got things handled.
3. Insecurity
Not all guarding is defensive! Some dogs act out of insecurity. Instead of protecting an object, they’re looking for reassurance.
What it looks like:
Wedge between you and another dog or person
Bark or push for attention when you focus elsewhere
Stick close to you in new or busy environments
This often shows up in rescue dogs or those who haven’t built much confidence yet. Training that uses positive reinforcement and builds independence can help.
4. Medical issues!
This is a big one and can so often be overlooked. Dogs are the champions of masking their pain and it can be hard for us to notice.
What looks like guarding can sometimes come from pain. A dog with hip arthritis might growl if you try to move them off the couch—not because they’re guarding the couch, but because movement hurts.
What it looks like:
Guarding specific spots (like the bed or couch)
Growling only when touched in certain areas
New guarding behavior appearing suddenly
If your dog’s behavior changes suddenly, or if it happens only in certain positions, it’s important to rule out pain with a vet.
How to Respond Safely
Guarding behaviors don’t always mean the same thing! They can come from instinct, insecurity, pain, or even a mix of emotions. What’s most important to remember is that your dog isn’t being “bad” or acting out of spite. They’re simply communicating the only way they know how.
The right solution depends on understanding the cause.
Start by ruling out any medical issues with your vet. Once health concerns are off the table, a professional trainer can help create a plan that fits your dog’s unique needs and your household.
In the meantime... a few simple steps can keep everyone safe:
Give space – Pressuring your dog in the moment can make things escalate.
Trade up – Offer something more valuable if you need to move an item.
Avoid punishment – It may suppress the warnings but often makes guarding stronger.
If your dog’s guarding feels overwhelming or unsafe, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Reach out to Copilot Dog Training and we’ll work together to help your dog feel safer, calmer, and more understood 🖤