I usually let my dogs lick each others’ bowls and lickmats once they’re done eating, but today I heard some growling and saw some territorial behavior. Now I’m wondering if I should stop letting them do that or if the problem is more about dealing with the dog that’s growling. What do you think I should do?
If there’s growling, I would stop letting them share bowls. That’s a sign that at least one dog isn’t comfortable. If you leave it, it might lead to guarding and defensive behavior. I would recommend feeding them separately and picking up the bowls once they’re done. I don’t correct growling because it’s how dogs communicate their boundaries. Even mother dogs growl at their pups when they need to set limits.
I wouldn’t correct the growling. It’s a warning from the dog, and correcting it might make them skip the growl and go straight to biting. Pick up the bowls once they’re done. As the human, it’s our job to manage the situation.
I’d take the bowls away once they’re done eating. Growling is a warning, and it likely means the dog is uncomfortable. You don’t want to stop them from growling because that might lead to biting without warning later. You could also try feeding them separately, like in different rooms or crates, if they’re getting territorial over each other’s bowls.
Letting them switch bowls could lead to problems and vet bills. It’s better to pick up the bowls as soon as they’re finished eating.
Don’t punish a growl. It’s like punishing you for being upset when someone takes your drink. If you punish it, the dog might not give a warning next time and just go straight to a bite. Don’t leave dogs alone with food in the same room. If you can’t supervise, feed them in separate rooms.
I didn’t let my two dogs do that. My poodle was older and didn’t always finish her food, so the other dog would eat it if left out.
Also, consider the health aspect. Your dogs are putting their mouths all over the bowls, and that could lead to germs. I don’t wash the bowls after every meal, but I do put them in the freezer to kill any germs before the next meal. I always wonder, would it be healthy for me to lick a bowl clean and then eat from it hours later?
Never correct a growl. It’s how dogs communicate. If they’re acting territorial, remove the bowls or lick mats once they’re done eating, and offer them a treat if they get upset when you take them.