Why does my dog guard me?

One of our most common calls is unwanted guarding behavior. So what causes dogs to guard us? There could be several reasons why your dog guards you. Here are a few possibilities:

1. Protective instinct: Dogs have a natural instinct to protect their pack members. If your dog feels like they are in charge they may perceive you as vulnerable or in need of protection, so they will guard you to keep you safe.

2. Fear or anxiety may be another cause, they may feel more secure when they are close to you. By guarding you, they are seeking comfort and reassurance.

3. Possessiveness: Some dogs can be possessive of their owners and may guard them as a resource. They may see you as their property and want to prevent others from getting too close. Meaning your dog owns you.

4. Lack of socialization: If your dog has not been properly socialized with other people or animals, they may be more prone to guarding behavior. They may feel uncomfortable or threatened by unfamiliar individuals and try to protect you as a result.

5. Past experiences: If your dog has had negative experiences in the past, such as being attacked or mistreated, they may be more likely to guard you as a defensive mechanism.

It's important to note that while some level of protective behavior is normal, excessive guarding can be a sign of underlying issues and may require professional training or behavior modification. If you have concerns about your dog's guarding behavior, reach out to us today to learn how we can help!