Field Scenario
A client’s dog shows escalating resource guarding around food, including growling when approached during meals.
What You Actually Do
- Address this carefully and gradually rather than punishing the growling directly
- Explain why punishment can worsen the underlying anxiety driving resource guarding
- Assess whether the severity of this case falls within basic training scope or warrants referral
- Prioritize the safety of everyone involved while working through an appropriate behavior modification plan
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