Managing Resource Guarding: A Guide to Peaceful Coexistence
Wolfdogs are captivating and unique animals that possess a mix of domestic dog and wild wolf characteristics. Their natural instincts and behaviours can present challenges when it comes to managing resource guarding. Resource guarding occurs when an animal perceives a particular item or space as valuable and reacts defensively to protect it. In this article, I will explore effective strategies to address and manage resource guarding behaviours in wolfdogs promoting a harmonious coexistence between humans and these fascinating creatures.
Packs & Pairings
Creating pairings and packs of wolfdogs requires a lot of foresight, thought and matchmaking skills. In this article, I share some of the keys factors we must take into consideration when creating packs and pairings of wolfdogs.
Seasonal Aggression
Seasonal Aggression in wolfdogs is a seasonal change in behaviour that usually occurs during the colder winter months. It is caused by a shift in hormones which ultimately can alter the behaviours displayed in that animal. In order to properly manage this change in behaviour there are some key things that we must know.
Resource Guarding
Resource Guarding is a behaviour you should expect when owning a wolfdog. You might be one of the lucky ones and have a wolfdog that isn’t picky over resources, but if you own or are planning on owning a wolfdog with any significant amount of wolf content, expect to have to manage this behaviour. Note, I say MANAGE this behaviour. This is not something you are ever likely to ‘train’ out of your wolfdog. It becomes about building trust and boundaries with your wolfdog in order to live with this very interesting instinctual behaviour.
Why Socialization is Key
Wolfdog socialization essentially aims at reprogramming their thinking and teaching them the things they NEED to know to live amongst us humans.