TOYS AND RESOURCE GUARDING: WHY YOUR DOG GETS AGGRESSIVE WHEN YOU TRY TO TAKE TOYS AWAY
Toy Guarding in Dogs: Why Your Dog Gets Aggressive Over Toys and How to Fix It
Has your dog recently growled, snapped, or even bit when you try to take away a toy? At Bullys Behaven, we work with families across New Jersey, New York and surrounding areas who are dealing with resource guarding, especially toy guarding, a behavior that often catches owners off guard.
The good news? No matter how long your dog has been guarding toys, this behavior can be corrected with the right training.
What Is Toy Guarding?
Toy guarding is a form of resource guarding, where your dog becomes defensive or aggressive over toys or other prized possessions. It can look like:
Growling when you reach for a toy
Stiff body posture or freezing
Lunging or biting if someone tries to take something away
Hiding or hoarding toys in specific areas
Even dogs who were previously calm can suddenly develop this behavior—especially as they mature or experience changes in the home.
Why Does My Dog Guard Toys?
Common causes of toy guarding include:
Natural instincts: Dogs are hardwired to protect valuable resources.
Lack of socialization: Poor early experiences can create fear-based behaviors.
Negative past experiences: Dogs who competed with siblings or were punished around toys may learn to guard.
Breed tendencies: Certain breeds are more prone to guarding behaviors.
How to Handle Resource Guarding in Dogs
Trying to “work around” toy guarding, like avoiding toys altogether, only limits your dog’s life (and yours). The safest and most effective approach is working with a professional dog trainer to teach your dog how to relax and let go of items without conflict.
At Bullys Behaven, we specialize in aggression and behavior modification. We help dogs in many areas across New Jerseya nd New York to learn safer, calmer behaviors around toys, food, and more.
Don’t wait until the next bite. Contact us today to learn how we can help your dog stop guarding and start trusting.