Training Tip - Toy Aggression

Hello and welcome back to beckyspetcare.com for another Training Tip provided to you by the wonderful pet care professionals at Becky’s Pet Care!

This time we will be discussing Toy Aggression. Mainly what causes it, and how to handle it.

Toy Aggression is what we call the behavior displayed when a dog who is usually gentle and friendly grows aggressive as people or pets approach one of their toys. Oftentimes, people say that this behavior ‘developed out of nowhere’. But as we all know, dogs are creatures of habit who are bred to be trained. The truth is that Toy Aggression is a behavior that your dog has been trained to perform.

The main way that dogs learn Toy Aggression is through play. Everyone loves to play with their dogs. Games like fetch or tug of war are extremely popular. However, one mistake that is commonly made by owners with their dogs is forgetting to engage in winding down.

This means that when you get your dog riled up chasing balls or tugging on toys, you cannot simply drop the game and walk away. Your dog doesn’t work like that. You need to take the time to wind them down, slowly transitioning from the semi-aggressive play to a much calmer demeanor.

This will ensure that your dog understands that the playful aggression is associated with the game, and not necessarily the toy itself. That’s why, even when you are not being playful, your dog might assume that your going for his toy means they need to tug. That sort of behavior, left unchecked, can develop from playful aggression to real aggression, which creates a problem.

Now what do you do if that aggression has become real, and now extends towards all of your dog’s toys? Well, the best way to combat Toy Aggression is with positive reinforcement through rewards.

Instead of trying to take your dogs’ toys away, try to practice first by replacing them. Take one toy they are protecting but give them another one in return. This way, your dog can learn that the loss of a toy is not a big deal. As you practice this, make sure to express vocal praise, and sometimes even replace the toy with a treat. This is not a one-day activity, mind you. This needs to be done regularly for some time, depending on the level of your dog’s Toy Aggression.

It is important your dog feels safe, so try to hold any of your frustration inside, and only associate praise, love, treats, and toys with the loss of a toy. As your dog learns to give up toys, you will find their Toy Aggression lessening.

Thank you for coming to beckyspetcare.com for another Quick Training Tip. Remember to check back with us regularly for other Quick Training Tips to help keep you and your pets happy.

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