Sharing is one of the fundamental skills that humans learn from a young age. However, for some dogs, sharing is not a natural behavior, and it can be challenging to teach them to share.

Possessive dogs often guard their toys, food, and other resources making it difficult for other dogs or even their owners to access them. This behavior can be frustrating and even dangerous as it can lead to aggression towards other dogs or people. The good news is that it is possible to train a possessive dog to share.

Identify the Root of the Behavior

Before you can train your dog to share, you must understand why they are possessive. Possessive behaviors usually stem from fear, anxiety, or lack of socialization.

For instance, a dog that has experienced food scarcity or competition is more likely to guard their food bowl aggressively. On the other hand, a dog that has never interacted with other dogs or people may perceive them as a threat. Identifying the root of the problem can help you address it more effectively.

Train Your Dog to Drop and Leave It

To train a possessive dog to share, they must first learn to obey basic commands such as ‘drop’ and ‘leave it’. These commands are essential because they teach your dog to give up whatever they have in their mouth or paws.

To teach the ‘drop’ command, hold a toy out for your dog to grab. After a few seconds, give the ‘drop’ command while offering a treat. Your dog should release the toy and take the treat. Repeat this process until your dog has mastered the command.

The ‘leave it’ command is also useful in teaching your dog to share. This command teaches your dog to ignore any object that they are fixated on.

For instance, if your dog is guarding their food bowl, you can use the ‘leave it’ command to make them let go. As your dog approaches their food bowl, say ‘leave it’, and offer a treat. Your dog should back away from the bowl and take the treat. Repeat this process until your dog learns to ignore their food bowl when you say ‘leave it’.

Practice Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in dog training. It involves rewarding your dog for good behavior, such as sharing their toys or food. Use your dog’s favorite treats or toys as rewards.

Whenever your dog shares their toys, food, or any other resource willingly, give them a treat or praise them enthusiastically. This approach helps to reinforce good behavior and motivates your dog to keep sharing.

Gradually Introduce Your Dog to Other Dogs and People

If your dog is possessive, they may perceive other dogs or people as a threat. To overcome this, you need to gradually ease them into social situations. Start by introducing your dog to one person or dog at a time, in a controlled environment.

Let your dog sniff and interact with the new person or dog under close supervision. If your dog shares their toys or space willingly, give them a treat or a toy as a reward. Over time, you can increase the number of people or dogs in the environment and monitor your dog’s behavior.

Teach Your Dog to Wait Their Turn

Sharing involves taking turns. To teach your dog to wait their turn, use the ‘wait’ command.

When your dog is about to grab a toy or food that another person or dog is holding, say ‘wait.’ If your dog obeys, give them a treat or a toy. This approach teaches your dog to wait patiently for their turn and increases their tolerance to frustration.

Teach Your Dog to Trade

Teaching your dog to trade is another effective way of teaching them to share. To do this, hold a toy that your dog values, such as a ball.

Offer your dog a treat or another toy of equal value and say ‘trade.’ If your dog takes the new toy or treat, give them the ball as a reward. Repeat this process several times until your dog learns to associate the ‘trade’ command with getting a reward.

Avoid Punishing Your Dog

Punishing your dog for not sharing their toys or resources is counterproductive. Punishment can lead to increased fear, anxiety and worsen the behavior you are trying to correct. Punishment can also damage your relationship with your dog.

Instead, focus on positive reinforcement, praise, and rewards to motivate your dog to share. If your dog shows aggressive behavior, seek the help of a certified dog trainer.

Conclusion

Teaching a possessive dog to share is possible with patience, persistence, and positive reinforcement.

Start by identifying the root of the behavior and use the ‘drop’ and ‘leave it’ commands to teach your dog to release their toys and food. Practice positive reinforcement by rewarding your dog when they share their resources willingly. Gradually introduce your dog to other dogs and people and teach them to wait their turn and trade. Avoid punishment and seek professional help if necessary.