Hi - I have 2 dogs, one is 3 & 1/2, the other is 6 mos. They are very opposite with dogfood, my older dog is generally indifferent to it (he will eat, but would much rather have people food!). Lately though he has been guarding his leftovers. He eats what he wants, then he lies next to the bowl and if puppy comes near he gets up as if he is eating. I can go to his bowl and he lets me do whatever - touch the food, put my face near his, take the food, etc.

But, here is my question: My older dog apparently lacks a little confidence when it comes to meeting kids. So, I am starting obedience training with him again. So ... how do I handle the food thing but still let him have confidence? Do I ignore it and just let him guard the food? Or should I take the food once he is done and put it away? Or does this have nothing to do with having confidence?

Also, does anyone know any books on advanced training for dogs? He has been to basic & advanced training and I am afraid he will get bored if I just keep retraining him in what we learned there.

Thanks! :)

~ M

Most people take the bowl away once the dogs done others leave food down all day but i would be careful as he is an older dog old and they are more difficult to trust if he is guarding his food but lets you near as you say he does then take the bowl when he has finished eating its a jealous behaviour by the sounds of it because of the younger pup :)

We had a 16year old border collie that did the same thing with a kelpie pup. The old dog would eat a few mouthfuls and then snack all day... he was always wary of the pup who used to have fun trying to sneak a snack in. There were never any problems because of it... some rivalry (within reason.. i.e no bloodshed) is normal.

The children should understand not to play with the dogs food or go near a dog when its eating.

Hi i can suggest that may you do not feed your dog in a dog bowl (if you you feed him dried food) and alternativly feed him in your hands or even on news paper and in different locations. Dont leave food down all day goive him a set time and this may help.
If you feed him wet food then try using different bowels and holding the bowel in your hands.
chirag patel
if you would like any more advice feel free to email me at chiragpatel86@hotmail.com

WHen he has finished eating remove his food bowl, he will soon learn to eat up in one go. Food related fights are the most common fights between two dogs.

My gsd bitch is the top dog in our house and she has been know to sit outside all night in the rain to guard one biscuit in her bowl, her attitude is I DONT WANT IT BUT NO-ONE ELSE IS HAVING IT. Now whaenever anyone leaves any food it is always picked up, as my male cocker was getting in on the action and copying her, thus causing friction with the girls and not allowing them to eat their own food.

Gladly no-one leaves their food ay more they soon learnt to eat up and shut up!!