spiritdogs
Posted : 3/24/2006 8:39:33 AM
If this is an Aussie, they have very strong herding and guarding instincts. The key is lots of training and mental stimulation so that the dog feels they have a job and you are the employer LOL.
Try clicker training. These are dogs that soak up knowledge like a sponge and are good problem solvers.
Also, consider that your dog may not like the dog park environment any more. Sometimes, when dogs reach adulthood, they are less than enthusiastic about the physical play they enjoyed as puppies and adolescents. What you perceive as guarding could be that, but it could also be an effort to keep other dogs at bay, since they are not in your pack. Herding dogs often feel uncomfortable about other dogs getting right up into their personal space. It may be that they want a clear line of sight so they can keep their "livestock" in view. Without observing your dog, I don't know, but it never hurts to engage the dog in obedience exercises. If the problem persists, get a good trainer to help you out.