LoveToKnow Dogs:Custom Canine Aggression

I won't kid you, this has developed into a very serious situation, and it sounds like Delta is in danger of receiving a serious wound. I would need more information to try to offer more insight into what's going on. Are both or either of these dogs spayed/neutered? How old are they?

Some initial fighting is to be expected when two dogs are introduced to the same living space. They need to figure which one is going to be the dominant dog in the pack. It sounds as though Delta and Shep settled this question initially, so the question is what has changed in the household to start the recent bouts of fighting? Has anyone moved in or moved out? Has someone's work schedule changed? Are the dogs now getting less exercise than they used to? These are all examples of things that can upset the pack balance and lead to aggressive behavior.

Since the fighting is so serious that you aren't able to control it, I think you should consult with a dog behavior specialist. You can usually find one through a local dog training facility. The behaviorist will actually come to your home to observe the dogs together in their environment. This person is trained to pick up on the clues that lead to the fighting. Once that can be determined, the behaviorist will offer suggestions on ways to eliminate the sources of contention and lessen the unwanted behavior. I believe this is not only important for the dogs, but for your family as well because someone could get hurt while trying to break up a fight between the dogs.

Additionally, I think it would be helpful to put dogs into obedience training right away. If you can condition them to respond to a "down" command, you may be able to use it to break up a fight before it gets serious. Watch for those cues that the dogs are beginning to antagonize each other, and give them the down command. It could help break the tension and distract the dogs from their intention to do battle. Hopefully a combination of these suggestions will help resolve the issue and allow you to keep both dogs. Otherwise, you may need to consider placing one of them in another home.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes that it all works out. - posted by:Kelly

Believe me, I can feel your stress. I believe there are multiple things going on here, and unfortunately it's all happening while you're dealing with your own pregnancy.

So, let's try to pinpoint a couple of things. First, it's not uncommon for dogs to express behavioral changes when their owner becomes pregnant. Some dogs become extremely affectionate, others become aloof and some become very protective of that person. There's a theory that the dogs can smell the hormone change, and therefore they can become a little confused by the change in their owner's once familiar scent. Since your female seems to be aggressive mostly when she's in your presence, your pregnancy might have something to do with the situation.

Now, let's talk about your female's upcoming heat cycle. You said she's due in August, so the time is drawing near. Females often begin to emit a heat scent before they actually come in, and your dog is displaying some behaviors toward the pup that could be interpreted as both sexual and dominance displays. In truth, they probably are a mix of these two things.

Now, add into the mix that your young male is coming into sexual maturity, and you have the recipe for a volatile situation. The fact that he isn't lifting his leg yet could be a sign that he really isn't mature, but just be aware that a male pup usually become fertile around six months of age. Your female likely senses this, and her behavior fluctuates between being mother-like and fending off a suitor.

As you have already experienced, there's a lot going on here, and it won't be easy to rectify most of it because of all the hormones involved. Right now, I'd recommend sending these dogs outside separately. This will lessen the opportunity for fights. You'll need to keep a close watch on your female for her heat cycle to begin. Many females show aggression toward males when they are in the early stages of heat until they begin to ovulate. I think that once your female reaches that stage, her behavior will make a complete turnaround.

If at all possible, try to catch your female just as she tenses up and firmly tell her no. Pre-empting the aggression lets her know that you are still her leader and that you do not want that behavior. I won't kid you that this is going to be easy, but I do believe that things will get better once you all get past this intense time in your lives.

Best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

I actually have two Jack Russell females from the same litter myself, so I am very familiar with the kind of situation you find yourself in right now.

On the whole, Terriers are a bit more aggressive than many other breeds, and fights do break out from time to time. At six months old, your girls are now trying to decide which one of them will be the dominant dog in their little pack. This is natural behavior for all dogs, but given the fact that your dogs are Terriers, these fights can look especially ferocious. I can tell you it's not uncommon to find a tooth mark on one of the combatants now and then, but that is par for the course when living with multiple Terriers.

I'm a little farther down the road than you are because my girls are almost two years old. It may help you to know that the fighting lessens as the dogs mature and settle down. We do still have the occasional scuffle break out from time to time, but it's usually over very quickly. I or one of my other adult family members carefully separates the girls and asserts authority over the dogs with a stern voice. Keeping them separated for a few minutes seems to get their mind off the fight and helps them become calm again.

As for your problem right now, I would suggest getting these girls into obedience training. They are old enough, and learning to respond to your commands may help you break up the fights and get the girls to settle down quicker. The training won't be a cure all, but as I said, you have to expect some of this territorial behavior when living with Terriers. They have quite different personalities than many other small dogs.

Thanks for sharing your situation. I hope this info helps. - posted by:Kelly

It sounds like there may be a number of things going on here. First, your little Chihuahua is becoming mature, and it sounds like he is beginning to assert himself to see if he can gain dominance over your Pug. This is actually quite natural behavior between dogs, so try to let them settle it themselves as long as the little Chi doesn't get hurt.

Second, is there a possibility your Pug could be coming into heat? That could make her feel a bit more testy, and just because your male is neutered doesn't mean he won't be interested in her when the time comes. Sometimes a female will seem quite ferocious during this time, and she will attempt to drive off the male with her aggressive behavior. The current fighting could be a combination of these issues.

You may find it helpful to begin taking these two dogs for daily walks together. This allows them to work off excess energy, relax and begin to settle into a pack together. This is often enough to help get things back on track, but you will still likely have the occasional tussle because Chihuahuas behave a lot like Terriers. Most people don't realize this because they look so little and cute, but they really do have the heart of a lion. If you find it necessary, don't hesitate to put both dogs through obedience training. This will give you greater control over them when they get ready to rumble.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this advice is helpful. :) - posted by:Kelly

It sounds like you really have your hands full, but this dog is very lucky to have you. You are still able to see the good in him beyond all the unacceptible behaviors. You may be his last chance for survival.

The biting is a real concern, but I don't think it's too late If you're willing to get your dog the help he needs. Since the problems are so extensive, I really believe you need the help of a professional canine behaviorist. This person is an expert in dog behavior, and specializes in coming to your home to observe your dog's actions, as well as what triggers those actions. Based on these observations, the behaviorist offers specific suggestions on ways to correct the unwanted behaviors. The behaviorist will also look at how you and your boyfriend interact with the dog and offer suggestions for behavior modifications that should improve the situation.

I don't want to kid you, it won't be easy to rehabilitate your pet, but I think you'll be well rewarded for your efforts. You can usually locate a canine behaviorist through your local dog training facility or your local phone directory.

Best wishes, and please let us know what happens. - posted by:Kelly

It sounds like you have your hands full, but I don't think it's too late to turn the situation around. It sounds to me like your little Dachshund has decided she is going to take over as pack leader. It's up to you and your husband to establish your role as her leaders. First, contact your local dog training facility, explain your problem and see if they feel your Dachshund should be enrolled in a puppy socialization class. This is typically for younger pups, but it does provide a good foundation for establishing basic social manners for interacting with people and other dogs. Enrolling her in obedience class is also a good way to establish your pack leader position in a positive manner. You and your dog will learn commands that will help you regain control over her. You can talk with your trainer about the specific aggression problems your pup has and the trainer will work with you to resolve them.

Additionally, you and your husband should begin taking your Dachshund for daily pack walks. Take turns holding her leash so she understands that both of you are above her in the pack hierarchy. Once that is established, you can ask your son to bring his Labrador over to take walks with all of you. Moving together in a pack is a very natural behavior for dogs, and the longer you go on, the more you lessen the tension. Everyone settles into their position, and it usually leads to greater harmony.

Thanks for your question, and I hope you find these tips useful. Best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

I'm glad you're asking about this situation, and I hope I can provide some help. First of all, it takes more than a few days for a puppy to adjust to a new home. This is so for a pup that was raised in a nurturing environment and finds it easier to make the transition. A pup from a shelter situation could take even longer, so please don't feel discouraged that your puppy isn't the happy camper you'd hoped for. He will likely improve his disposition once he feels more secure.

That said, your puppy might have missed out on early socialization, so that is where I would begin. For now, do not pressure him to interact with your nieces and nephews. Limit contact so no one gets hurt. Check your local dog training facilities and find a puppy socialization class you can enroll in. Both you and your husband should take turns working with your puppy in class. The best thing about classes is that they put you in direct touch with a trainer who can observe your puppy in person and offer suggestions on ways to address the problems. Socialization classes are a little different than standard obedience classes, and you should begin here before moving on to obedience.

At home, I recommend you and your husband begin taking your puppy for 20 to 30 minutes walks each day to help establish a family pack. Take turns holding the lead so he learns that you are both his leaders. These walks will help your pup release stress, and travelling in a pack is a primal urge that will help ease your dog's confusion over all the changes he's been through in his young life so far. This should help his disposition. Once these walks are going very well for at least three weeks, you can begin inviting one or two of the children to walk with you. If this goes well, you can gradually allow your pup to spend more time with them under your close supervision.

Additionally, it may be helpful to search out a Border Collie breeder to get more information on these dogs' general temperament. Being herders, they can tend to view children as their charges sometimes and get a little nippy. However, this is a very different situation than actual biting. A professional breeder can listen to your situation, and advise you whether your dog's temperament seems totally out of line from what you'd expect at this age. Most breeders are happy to share their experience with others, so it's a great resource to take advantage of.

Finally, let's talk about your puppy's overboard attachment to you. Obviously, he has some abandonment/anxiety issues to work through, and he has chosen you as his life preserver. You can continue to offer affection and support, but also make sure to give your pup time on his own while you are still home. He needs to learn some independence, and he will take his cues from you. If you allow him to cling to you all the time, he will think this is necessary for his survival. If you can be a little more nonchalant and give him toys and chews to play with on his own while you undertake other activities in the home, he will begin to progress in his development. Bottom line, you need to be careful about encouraging his single-minded devotion to you so that he broadens his horizons and is willing to accept other people in his life.

I really do think this situation can be turned around, but you need to understand that it will take time and consistency for the changes to come about. Only you and your husband can decide whether you can make this committment based on your unique family situation. I wish you every success. - posted by:Kelly

I certainly understand how you feel. The welfare of your dog is your most important concern. First of all, I want you to understand that you have an option that not every dog owner has when their pet bites someone. Many municipalities require the dog be euthanized. For this reason if no other, you can rest easier knowing your dog still has a chance at a happy life.

I'm not sure which circumstances will surround the surrender of your dog. If your family is allowed to remove him from the county themselves, you have a better chance of controlling where he winds up. If you have the opportunity to adopt him out privately, just be sure to make a full and fair disclosure about what happened so the new owner understands this dog will need further training to try to keep another accident from happening.

Luckily, Boxers are a very resilient breed, and they easily transfere their affections to a loving and patient new owner. Your dog will probably go through a short adjustment period, but he'll likely make the transition just fine.

Best wishes that this situation has a happy ending. - posted by:Kelly

Unfortunately, you're in a bad position. Your dog treated this person rushing into your home as an intruder. Although the dog most likely thought he was protecting his territory and his family, the situation doesn't look good. The court is most likely to write this off as another viscious dog case and make you take him out of the county. In some counties, such dogs are seized and euthanized, so you're lucky you still have an option. Even if the court took your side in the matter, you would probably lose your friendship with the other family over the matter.

The best advice I can give you is to speak with a local attorney about your rights. You might also want to try to discuss the situation rationally with the other family to see if anything can be worked out. However, the law is the law no matter what. If you are ordered to give up the dog, you'll have to follow through.

I wish I had more positive advice to give you, but dog attacks are a hot button issue these days, no matter what the circumstance are surrounding the incident. Best wishes that this can still work out somehow. - posted by:Kelly

I'm not going to kid you, this is a very serious situation. Your little Chihuahua's life is in danger. Unfortunately, many Pitbulls become intolerant of other dogs, and this sounds like the case in your sitution. You'll need to take immediate action to ensure your Chihuahua's safety. You can either give your Chi to another home, or hire the services of a canine behaviorist. The behaviorist will come to your home and observe the dogs in action. Afterward, the behaviorist will offer training advice to keep your Pitbull from attacking, if that will be at all possible. You should be able to contact a behaviorist through your local dog training facility.

I'm sorry I don't have more positive advice for you, but it's extremely important that you take action quickly. Best wishes for the entire situation. - posted by:Kelly

Right now, this dog is trying to establish herself as the leader of her new pack. The best thing you can do is enroll in obedience class with her. This will put you in the leadership position right from the onset, and the instructor will work with you on ways to stop the mouthing. The main thing is that you have to be consistent about rebuffing her pushiness. She has to learn that her current behavior is unacceptible. Once she does, I believe you are going to have a very loving and loyal pet. Staffies have big personalities that require a lot of quidance. It's not too late to begin providing that guidance at two years old, so contact a training facility near you and let them work with you and your dog one-on-one. I think it's the best solution.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

I'm sorry to hear about the situation you face. With a dog of this size, you and the rest of your household are in danger, so it's important to take action right away.

I'm not a vet, but I do suspect that such a sudden and profound behavioral change could have been brought on by a medical condition. The diagnosis should be left to your veterinarian, but this could be a case of rage syndrome. This syndrome affects a number of breeds, including Rottweilers. The name describes the affected dog's behavior, but it is really a form of epileptic seizure that presents as rage. The good news is that if this really does turn out to be what your dog has, the condition can often be controlled with phenobarbitol.

Please don't delay in making the appointment, and I truly hope the vet can help your dog get back to being his normal self. Best wishes for your situation. - posted by:Kelly

It sounds like your new pet is confused about her place in her new family. It actually sounds like she is trying to buffalo you over the toys and treats, but she seems to cave when you assert some authority.

It is important for you and your husband to establish your position as this dog's leaders. That said, your husband's use of the Alpha roll is not going to help you achieve your goal in a healthy manner. I suggest he stops doing that in favor of another course of action.

I think the best thing your family can do is enroll your new dog in obedience class. This gives you the opportunity to establish your leadership position in a positive and structured manner. Only one of you should work with the dog at class while the other person observes the training techniques. As you practice at home during the week, the two of you can take turns working with Muffin so she comes to understand that you are both her leaders. Once this is achieved, the fake aggression over the toys and treats should disappear. As a bonus, you will have a wonderfully trained companion.

Thanks for your questions! - posted by:Kelly

I won't kid you, this is a serious situation, and you will ultimately have to make your own decision about what is best for your family. That said, let me share my thoughts, and hopefully they will help you sort things out and come to a resolution.

First, I do believe that Moses' reaction was as different from a dog attack as night is from day. This dog was sleeping and startled awake by what felt to him like an attack from an unknown source. He did seem to recognize in mid-action that it was only your son, and pulled back on what could have been a life-threatening bite, turning it into a warning. Under the circumstances, I believe Moses reacted as well as he was able. This was not a conscious decision to attack, but rather an instinctual reaction to protect himself.

Now, I'm curious to know what happened in the immediate aftermath of the episode. Once your son's face was attended to and he had a chance to calm down, did you talk to him about what happened? I think it was important to take this opportunity to try to teach him not to climb on the dog because the dog really doesn't like it. I realize your son is only two, and may not be fully able to comprehend what happened, but it's important to try to help him understand so he doesn't repeat his actions. I'm also wondering how he regards Moses now? Have things returned to normal, or is he a bit fearful of Moses? And just as important, is Moses fearful or wary of your son? It's important to take into consideration the feelings of both parties, but doubtless that your son's feelings and safety must come first. My point is that if things have returned to normal, you might try to keep Moses in the family, and monitor your son more closely around the dog to head off similar situations. This will be easier as your son becomes older. However, if Moses now regards your son with apprehension, it may be safer to adopt him out to an adult household.

You have a big decision to make, so please consider my thoughts carefully, and don't hesitate to discuss the situation with a qualified canine behaviorist. Best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

I think your vet is right, your dog has decided he is the pack leader in your family, and he is taking it upon himself to protect the family territory. A basic obedience class should put him back in a subordinate role. You can also ask the trainer for specific advice on how to stop the fence charging. I would enroll as soon as possible because animal control can pick up your dog if the mail carrier or someone else presses charges. I'd hate to see that happen when this problem can be remedied.

Thanks for your question, and best wishes that this situation can be quickly worked out. - posted by:Kelly

You have a serious situation on your hands, but one that I think it's not too late to correct. Bella sounds very much like a strong alpha bitch that has decided she is in control of your family pack. She's going to show aggression to anyone she thinks presents a challenge to her, and this seems to be getting progressively worse with this new incident with your neighbor.

At over one year old, it's time for Bella to attend obedience class. This training will put her in a subordinate role to her humans, but it does it in a very structured and positive setting. This will be the first step in getting Bella back under control and making her a safe and reliable companion.

Once Bella has the training, you can begin allowing each family member (you'll have to supervise the grandchildren) to walk her on leash, showing them the commands for heal and sit. Bella will learn that she must follow their leadership, as well as your own, and this should result in her taking up position at the bottom of the family pack beneath the people.

Now, let's address the particular incident with your neighbor. When Bella snapped at your neighbor for interferring with what she was doing, the dog wanted to be left alone. When you removed her and put her in her kennel, she got what she wanted- to be left alone. A more useful response in such a situation would be to give an immediate, strong "No" command, remove the dog from the situation and immediately put the dog on a leash. Walk her on the leash and require her to stop whenever you command her to, and shorten up on the lead so she cannot lunge forward ahead of you. This puts you back in control and forces the dog to submit to your leadership. You continue with the leash work until the dog is calmly following your lead. It's also very important that you have the correct energy while you're putting your dog through her paces. This is not a punishment, it is a teaching exercise designed to help you regain control, so you have to remain calmly authoritative throughout the exercise without losing your temper.

I think if you can carry out these suggestions and remain consistent in your expectations for Bella, she will learn to respond without aggression. She just really needs to learn her proper place in the pack.

Best wishes for training success. - posted by:Kelly

Unfortunately, you've hit the nail on the head. Your Min Pin is much smaller than your Pitbull and bound to lose in the end. Miniature Pinschers are quite feisty, but they are no match for a Pit.

Since the problem is so severe, I think you should bring in a canine behaviorist to evaluate the situation and see if these dogs can be rehabilitated enough to live safely together. Otherwise, you may need to give one of the aggressors away in order to ensure no one is killed.

Thank you for your question, and I do hope the behaviorist can bring harmony back to your home. - posted by:Kelly

Chow Chows are known for being a bit more strong willed than some other breeds, so a dog with Chow heritage may require concentrated training in order for you to gain the dominant position with her.

Right now, your puppy is the alpha in the pack, and this needs to change. How do you currently respond to the nipping? Ignoring it or giving in to your puppy will only reinforce the unwanted behavior. The best way to address the situation is to give her a firm "No" command and confine her for a time out when she nips or shows any other aggression. Let her out after about ten minutes, and then redirect her into a situation or activity that you can praise her for. You might also reinforce your training by spraying your hands with bitter apple spray to make them distasteful to your dog.

Luckily, your puppy is almost old enough to begin obedience training and this will naturally reinforce your alpha position with her. In the meantime, a puppy socialization class could also be helpful, and the class trainer might be able to offer further suggestions for controlling your dog's nipping if he/she can observe it in person.

All things considered, I don't see a reason to give up on your dog at this time. She's just a strong-willed puppy pushing her boundaries right now, but I'm sure you can correct the situation and give her the structure she needs to become a great family pet.

Best wishes, and I hope you find these suggestions helpful. - posted by:Kelly