Stop Stealing Your Dog’s Food: Why "Testing" Leads to Aggression

Many dog owners ask themselves, "Did I make my dog aggressive?" when a once-calm puppy starts growling over a bone. The short answer? In many cases, yes—though it is usually done completely by accident.

While every dog has a different personality, certain "tests" we put them through can inadvertently trigger resource guarding, especially in pushy or dominant-leaning dogs.

The "Take-Away" Trap

 I hear this from clients all the time:

"He never used to be aggressive around food or toys!"

"I used to take things away from him all the time just to make sure he'd let me, and he was always fine."

This is exactly where the trouble starts. Frequently "testing" your dog by taking away their food, bones, or toys doesn't "prove" they are submissive—it actually creates possessive aggression.

Put Yourself in Their Paws

Think about it this way: Imagine every time you sat down to eat a meal, I came over and stuck my hands in your plate or took your fork away just to "see what you'd do."

Eventually, you are going to get fed up. You’ll start preparing for me to steal your food by:

• Guarding the plate with your arms.

• Giving me a harsh, warning stare.

• Slapping my hand away.

Your dog is doing the exact same thing. If you don't take the hint from their body language (tensing up or a low growl), they feel they have no choice left but to bite. This creates a cycle of distrust and confusion that can ruin your bond.

The Solution: The "Trade-Up" Method

Instead of testing your dog by taking things away, you should teach them that your approach is a benefit, not a threat. The goal is to convince your dog that giving something up results in getting something even better.

How to Practice the Trade:

• Identify a "High-Value" Reward: Use something your dog loves more than the item they have—like a piece of chicken, cheese, or a freeze-dried treat.

• The Approach: While your dog has a toy, walk up (give them space!) and toss a treat nearby.

• The Trade: Say a cue like "Drop it" or "Trade." When they drop the toy to eat the treat, pick up the toy, praise them, and then give the toy right back.

• The Result: Your dog learns that you aren't a "resource thief." Instead, they realize that when you show up, they get a bonus treat and usually get to keep their item anyway.

By practicing the trade-up, you replace distrust with cooperation. You are no longer the person they have to guard against; you are the person who brings the best snacks!