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Two spayed females been together for over two years (coexisting) competing occasionally and "snapping" at each other...
My larger mixed breed has snapped probably four times and been giving warnings to my bichon dog (eyes focused, lip "quivering"). The bichon always seemed to be more dominant and the bigger clearly submissive with people and usually to the small dog . The dogs usually just coexist. Three times since February, the bigger one has nabbed the little one on her muzzle/face/ear - never serious, but still unacceptable and usually quick. Each time, food was nearby (such as on table or counter - not floor)... but after banning dogs from kitchen area and reading/watching the bigger one closer, I've seen her just "warning" (the eyes and lips change and stiffen) my little one at other passing moments throughout the day (the bichon may be "facing" the bigger one really from what I've seen). Pro dog trainer didn't have much to offer and said the dogs are doing well from his view and problems are from human error - I'd work to address any issues.Any other thoughts on the behavior change?Suggestions?
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Member 985312
on May 4th 2010
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in Behavior & Training
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Sadly, this is not an uncommon problem when two females live together, and it does usually develop over time. Because this seems to be escalating, I would make certain not to leave them unsupervised together ever... you may return to find that one has seriously injured the other or worse. It happens often, usually the owner has not recognized that anything was wrong and just returns to a blood bath, you at least, are aware there are issues present. Years ago I had two Frenchie bitches that were perfect when I was home, but often when I left them together I would return to the smaller one with bites on her. I never saw it happen until once, and I was surprised to find the smaller one starting it! I never left them together again, but ultimately had to rehome one of them since it continued to escalate until she was starting stuff if I even left the room, and it was obvious that neither dog was comfortable with the situation.
Ch. Luke
answered on 5/5/10.
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Sounds like you have Alpha Female competition going on. Have you checked out www.cesarsway.com? this is the dog whisperer's website. he offers great tips and videos on how to deal with different types of aggression. look for possessive aggression and you should get some great info. usually once you learn the signs to look for, you can stop the behavior before it starts. good luck!
Petri
answered on 5/7/10.
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