training
Resource Guarding vs. Rule Setting: Training and Management In the second of this two-part feature, Suzanne Clothier takes a closer look at resource guarding vs. rule setting, the zones which tell the tale, and differences in how to develop training and management strategies
© Can Stock Photo / dmetsov
© Can Stock Photo / NataliaSavilova
Rule setters can be more controlled in their behavior and because their behavior is not governed by anxiety, there is confidence and deliberation in their actions
The less confident the dog feels about his ability to protect a resource, the closer he will keep that resource
n the first part of this article I explained the distinction I make be tween resource guarding and rule setting in canine behavior, and why this categorization influences my approach to addressing behav ior issues (see Resource Guarding or Rule Setting?, BARKS from the Guild, March 2021, pp. 28‐30). We can now break things down even fur ther.
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Ownership Zone: This is the actual physical space in which the dog
Which Is Which?
Influence Zone: Where is the point where the dog is able to create a
How do we know if we’re dealing with resource guarding or rule set ting? For me, the answer lies in a constellation of observable behaviors which, taken together, tell the tale. I think of this as The Zones.
response in another being? How does the dog achieve this: with physi cality or with psychological presence?
has ownership of or control of the resource.
Defense of Possession Zone: Where is the point where the dog feels that his control of a resource may be threatened in some way? Where is defense of possession triggered?
Response Zone: Where does the dog responds to another’s physical or
Many guardians are quite puzzled when an eager-to-go dog suddenly balks about getting into a vehicle or going outside. If they have a rule setter, that dog can be creating the conflict.
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BARKS from the Guild/May 2021
psychological presence? His response may be avoidance or aggression.
Resource Guarding There is an inverse relationship between a dog’s ownership zone and his defense of possession zone. The less confident the dog feels about his
