Nipping resource valuing in the bud...

[Beerfish]

Nibbs is about 18 weeks, very good in all regards, friendly, obedient enough (for a pup) and doing well with training. No problems with handling his toys or his food bowl or even the chew toys he likes. However my brother brought over a couple of grouse wings for him to play and get familiar with. I have brought one out on a couple of occasions and he's showing signs of a bit of aggression. A growl the 1st time I removed it from him a few days back and a rather tense demeanor today. I spoke softly to him and was able to take the wing away without a growl with his command to give something up ("off") but I could tell he was not happy about it and I was cautious due to his body language.

What is the best approach if he continues to do some resource guarding (which is rather out of character from the rest of his personality.) Is it better to use a soft approach and give him a reward if he gives up the item even if he is reluctant or is this a case where one needs to assume alpha control?

[Sophiesmama]

I had that happen with a raw bone. Sophie growled at me! I finally took it away from her. According to what I have read, bones and the wings you used bring out the primal side of the dog. We haven't tried a bone again, but I plan to. She was 5 months on the 13th and is otherwise a very obedient and loving dog. The bone issue is the only time she has ever growled at anyone.