Dog Behavior

dog with toy resource guarding

Is My Dog Resource Guarding? A Guide to Understanding and Training this Behavior

The scene is a familiar one: your dog is happily chewing on a bone, but the moment you walk into the room, their posture stiffens. A low growl rumbles from their chest as they turn their body to shield the bone. You might wonder, “Why is my dog acting this way?” or “Is my dog aggressive?”

This behavior is known as dog resource guarding, and while it can be alarming, it’s a natural, instinctual behavior that can be managed and improved with the right training. Resource guarding is not a sign of a “bad” dog, but rather a dog’s attempt to communicate that they feel a threat to a valuable item. This guide will help you understand why your dog exhibits this behavior, how to recognize the signs, and, most importantly, how to train it safely and effectively.

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brown scruffy dog with tongue out walking on leash on a hiking trail around tall wheat grass with a hiker's legs walking behind the dog.

Everything to Know About Dog Aggression Rehabilitation

Living with a dog that struggles with aggression can feel overwhelming for families. From snapping at strangers to growling at other pets in the home, these behaviors often create stress and leave owners unsure of what to do next. Dog aggression rehabilitation offers a way forward by helping dogs learn healthier responses and giving owners the tools to manage behavior with confidence. At BlackPaw Dog Training, we’ve worked with dogs of all breeds and backgrounds to replace unwanted behaviors with calmer, more appropriate choices.

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dog with nervous body language

BlackPaw’s Dog Body Language Chart + How to Understand It 

Ever wished you had a secret decoder ring for your dog’s barks, wiggles, and wags? Well, good news! While we can’t offer a magic ring, we can give you the next best thing: a comprehensive dog body language chart designed to help you finally “speak dog.” Your furry friend is communicating with you constantly, from the tip of their nose to the end of their tail – and learning to interpret these subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals is one of the most rewarding adventures you’ll ever embark on as a dog owner. Get ready to unlock a deeper bond, prevent misunderstandings, and truly connect with your beloved pup! 

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dog being reactive on a walk who needs desensitization training

The Super Guide to Desensitizing Your Dog

Does this scene sound familiar? You’re enjoying a walk on a beautiful Colorado day, but your eyes are scanning the horizon, not for the mountain views, but for other dogs. The moment you spot one, your stomach tightens. Your dog, who was just sniffing happily, is now rigid, fixated, and about to erupt into a frenzy of barking and lunging. Or maybe it’s the doorbell that turns your home into chaos, or a distant rumble of thunder that sends your best friend into a state of trembling fear.

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two litter matte golden retriever puppies

Double Trouble? Why Getting Two Puppies from the Same Litter Isn’t Twice the Fun

Double Trouble? Why Getting Two Puppies from the Same Litter Isn’t Twice the Fun Bringing home a puppy is exciting—there’s just something about a wagging tail and tiny paws that melts your heart. And when you’re looking at a whole litter of fluffy little faces, choosing just one? Nearly impossible. So, you start thinking… maybe

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Rescue Dog Separation Anxiety 101: Helping and Preventing Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Bringing home a rescue dog is a rewarding experience, but it can come with some challenges, one of which is separation anxiety. Many rescue dogs have experienced trauma, abandonment, or instability in their past, which can make adjusting to a new home feel overwhelming. If your dog is showing signs of separation anxiety, don’t worry. With patience, understanding, and training, you can help them feel safe and secure. In this blog, we’ll explore rescue dog separation anxiety​ and offer practical tips for helping your furry friend find peace when you’re away.

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family introducing their baby to the dog

How to Introduce Your Dog to a New Baby: Tips & Tricks for a Safe Intro

How to Introduce Your Dog to a New Baby: Tips & Tricks for a Safe Intro Welcoming a new baby into your home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be an overwhelming experience for your dog. Proper preparation and a structured introduction can help ensure a smooth transition and a positive bond between

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