Buddy started this guarding around the same age. He's 5 now and he
will still take a toy or bone under a chair in the living room and guard it.
I have done extensive training with him and still do. He shares most of
his toys but you never know when this behavior will appear.
IMO it never completely goes away if they are like this.
Just the other night going to bed, I always look under the bed for a toy
because he will guard it during the night at times so no toys in the bedroom
while we sleep ever. Sure enough I picked up the bedskirt and got a
very aggressive growl. I ordered him to come out, which he did and made him
leave the room, closed the door and took the toy out. Opened the door
and he was back to his crazy self without a thought to that toy!
I know my dog and this guarding is part of his makeup IMO. Trading
does not work so I do not give him things that I no he will guard.
Only at night does he get this way, never during the day which is only
more confusing to me. Don't give up continue training and stay away
from the things that can off set this behavior. |