05/19/2026
When taking something from my dog I always offer a trade for something of equal or higher value.
Imagine if your coworker walked by and grabbed your lunch out of your hand everyday. You would probably start to avoid that person and maybe get a little defensive when they walked by. The same is true for your dog. If we always just walk up and take things from them, they will start to avoid you or worse resource guard from you. This is where you start to see your dog grabbing things and running away from you. Because I have always offered a trade, my dogs will willingly come to me when they have something they shouldn’t and I need to take it from them.
I always say my dog’s name, say “out”, offer the trade and then take the item. It takes a little forethought but once you’ve laid the foundation the new item can be delayed.
