Food and Aggression

Food and Aggression

My dogs have been on Nutro for six years, but then they came to a point where they just wouldn't eat it anymore. We switched to Hill's Science Diet, but they grew tired of that too. Could you give me a good idea of a food to feed them?

I also have a second question. My female Basset/Cocker mix is very dominant over her brother. They are both seven years old, and he is bigger than she is, however he acts like more of a baby. She nips him to steal his treats, and she bosses him around. She almost acts human. I just wondered if you had a solution for her brow beating?

Thanks~~ Sharon Griffin

Expert Reply

Hello Sharon,

Let me begin with your question about dog food. I believe that dogs get tired of eating the same thing every single day just as we would, so it's a good idea to rotate the foods you serve. You just have to make the change gradually so you don't upset their digestive systems.

I've recently been researching some alternative dog food brands that sound very good to me in theory, but I have to say that I honestly haven't tried either of them with my own dogs yet. Timberwolf Organics and Orijen both focus on using higher grade meat products than you'll find in the average dog food. I also like the fact that they don't add chemical preservatives, and they don't use filler grains like corn and wheat. Corn and wheat are frequently linked to food allergies and digestive disturbances.

We've all been learning so much about what's in commercial dog food since the recent dog food recall that I no longer feel comfortable recommending any of it. I'm going to give one of the brands I just mentioned a try, and perhaps you might like to try one of them as well.

Now, regarding your bitch's aggression. She's obviously an Alpha personality, which means she perceives herself as top dog. There's no better way to deal with an Alpha than putting her through an obedience course. Once she learns the commands you can stop her dead in her tracks when she begins to harass your male. Give her a firm "down" and "stay" command and leave her there until he's had a chance to finish. Believe me, she'll be a new dog.

It also wouldn't hurt to put your male through the course either. Having both of your dogs on the same wavelength might give him more confidence.

I hope you find these suggestions helpful, and thanks for your questions.

~~ Kelly