[Rocky's_mom]

I do want to add that you should be able to take something from a dogs mouth. Like a cooked chicken bone. I agree with Sophies-Mom about when you walk by them, add something good to there bowl. If your going to take something away, give them something better. I also played a game with Rocky (my rott) to get him to learn "drop it". I'd throw something (like a chew rope) he'd go get it and bring it back to me. Before he would just hold it and you had to get it away from him. THen, I started to say drop it while he was letting go of the item. I'd praise and throw it again..He loved the game and in turn, taught him drop it! No matter what he has, I tell him to drop it and he does.

Also, someone told me once (please correct me if I'm wrong) but if for some reason, your dog is 'growling' at you change the position the dog is in. Like a sit. That way, the dog isn't protecting whatever he has.