The Trade Game - How to avoid Resource Guarding in your puppy.

Teaching your puppy that your approach means something good.

Note: If your puppy is already guarding an object, move away. Play the game when they are relaxed, using something they are only mildly interested in.

If your puppy freezes over a bone, guards a stolen sock or stiffens when you approach their food bowl, they may be showing resource-guarding behaviour. Watch for early warning signs, such as a stiff body, a hard stare, whale eye (a crescent of white showing as your dog looks sideways without turning their head), or a lifted lip.

Teach your puppy that your approach predicts something good.

Start with a boring object your dog is comfortable having you near, rather than their dinner, favourite chew or anything they already guard.

1. Approach at a comfortable distance. Walk towards your puppy without reaching for the item or crowding them.

2. Offer something better. Toss a high-value treat near your puppy, far enough away that they can choose to move towards it.

3. Let your puppy choose. Allow them to leave the item voluntarily to eat the treat. Never force the exchange or take the item while they are distracted.

4. Return the item. Once your puppy has moved away, casually give the item back, provided it is safe to do so.

Keep sessions short (5 -10 minutes) and repeat with ordinary objects your puppy \ only mildly values. Over time, your puppy learns that a person approaching their stuff predicts good things, and that giving something up doesn't necessarily mean losing it.

The goal is to help them feel safe when people approach their possessions.

Important: This game is designed for young puppies, not for dogs who already show guarding behaviours. If your dog is growling, freezing, snapping or biting over an item, don't use this game. Give them space and get help from a qualified, force-free behaviour professional.