When dogs don’t get along…
They’re loyal, loving, adorable and generous… just not always with each other. Just because you and a dog have a great relationship doesn’t mean that he’ll be so kind to other dogs. When dogs don’t get along, it can cause a huge amount of stress, so here are a few tips to help generate harmony.
Spay/neuter both dogs.
This is a must. And keep in mind that dogs of the same sex have more prone to aggression with each other.
Identify triggers and remove them.
If the dogs fight over food or guard their bowls, feed them in separate areas/rooms. If they fight over toys, don’t leave toys lying around on the floor. Sometimes, removing the triggers will remove the conflict.
Ditch the negative forms of discipline.
Yelling at your dog doesn’t do much to calm him down. In fact, he may start to associate the punishment (yelling, getting sprayed with a water bottle) with the other dog, not with his own behavior. This will only escalate the aggression. Since aggressive behavior comes from EMOTION, you want to focus on praising and soothing your pet before the behavior manifests itself. Pay attention to his energy and if he starts growling or getting nervous, talk to him in a happy, calming voice.
Amp up the exercise.
Some dogs have pent-up aggression and nervous tension that affects their behavior. To reduce that tension, make sure your pet gets plenty of vigorous exercise. The tugging game is also a positive outlet for that aggression, so be sure to let him win and shower him with praise.
Walk the dogs together.
Play into the pack mentality by walking the dogs side by side. They’ll feel like a team and they’ll be exercising at the same time.
Give each dog individual attention.
…Separately. Make sure you spend some one-on-one time with the dogs, giving them a healthy dose of attention and affection so they don’t feel as compelled to compete with each other for it. Plus, it strengthens your control over each dog.
Determine which dog is dominant and, yes, allow it.
Trying to change the pecking order that dogs may have established is NOT helpful. For example, if you’re petting Spike, the submissive dog, when Dora, the dominant dog, comes over with her ears up and chest out wanting your attention right now, Spike may get out of the way. Let him. He knows what he’s doing. With the dominant dog, put his food down first, pet him first when you come home, etc. to preserve the pecking order and keep the peace.
Know when to get help.
If your dog’s aggression problems aren’t getting better — or are getting worse — talk to your vet about why this may be happening and what you can do about it. It could be a physical or medical condition, or it may be something that requires obedience training. Either way, speaking with a professional is the best way to determine what’s best for your pet.
Good luck!
