Established Puppy Aggression

[Karen]

Alpha has nothing to do with the size of the dog, and if he's so laid-back, he may not ever bother to challenge her for it. But you should be the leader, in any case! If her food aggression continues, you may need to resort to the NILIF method - "nothing in life is free" which seems extreme, but can really help. (Do a search for it here, it has been discussed many times.)

[LoveLydia]

I didn't know that it was called NILIF, but that is really how we have been training Ayla. Although, I can see how being really consistent with it will make all the difference. It's feels like almost one unconcious move on our part can declare a huge step backwards, if we are not totally consistent with this training. Which seems really easy to do....to not realize we may be reinforcing negative behavior. Thanks Karen! =)