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My dog growls at my daughter near his bed. Is this resource guarding?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 4 years and 1 month old | 120 lbs

My dog is 4 years old and has started growling at my daughter when she approaches his bed. What can I do to stop this behaviour? I put him outside every time this happens but that isnt solving anything.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Lauren Jones VMD

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 22nd, 2021

This sounds like a difficult situation for all of you. Dogs can growl for a variety of reasons as a warning to other animals or people. Behavior issues are complex because there is rarely a cut and dry type of answer that fits all situations. It's possible that Blue is territorial around his bed and/or feels threatened by your daughter. I strongly recommend consulting a veterinary behaviorist (https://www.dacvb.org/search/custom.asp?id=4709) before the situation escalates. Until your behaviorist consult, be sure to keep Blue and your daughter separated with physical barriers (e.g. doors and gates), and remind your daughter not to approach him. The main goal is maintaining everyone's safety.
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