Instead of training your pup not to growl, you can accomplish a
far more useful goal.Teach your pup, by repeated example,
that there’s no need to defend its treasures from people.Start teaching this with a game, in which giving up an object
earns the pup a nice prize, plus it gets the treasured item back.
First, teach your pup to release a toy when you ask.To do
this, give your pup a toy but hold one end while your pup plays
with the other.After a few moments, offer the pup a tasty
treat, held far enough off to one side that it must release the
toy to get the yummy.Be sure to use a really delicious
treat so the pup will choose it over the toy.
Say “Give,” “Drop” or “Thank You”
(Or whatever cue you use) as you show the pup the treat.When
it releases the toy, praise and give it the tidbit.Then
immediately offer the toy again, happily telling the pup to
“Take it.”Praise the pup for taking the toy and
continue to hold on while the pup plays.After a little
while, again ask the pup to release the toy in exchange for a
treat.
After you’ve repeated this game a few times, your pup will
soon release the toy enthusiastically to get the treat.Now,
try saying the release word without showing a treat.If
your pup gives you the toy, immediately praise, reward with a
jackpot of treats, then give the toy back and continue the game.
With this game, your pup will gain confidence and won’t
hesitate to give up an item when you ask.After a while
start phasing out the treat by giving it less often, making the
toy itself the exciting reward.