Quote:
Originally Posted by Leamarie  Thanks so much for the advice and reassurances. We have been doing most of the suggestions, but I did it for Oliver's benefit. I didn't want him depressed in the change in our household so I was making sure he still felt like the spoiled pup he has been for 3 years! Now that I know I should be doing these things to show Lucy Oliver is alpha it makes that much more sense. We have a puppy play yard set up in the livingroom so in the evenings we take Oliver downstairs and spend old times with him in the family room while Lucy naps. He does take refuge from her on the couch but for how long? She will be up there before too long. My Mom suggested spraying water on her when she is tormenting Oliver too much. Believe it or not just doing this for a day she does seem to be a little better around him. I had a friend tell me that it took her pups about a year to tolerate each other as well. I guess I was just hoping for fast friends. Thanks again for all the suggestions. I think I'm going to like YT! Wish I had found this site three years ago when we were brand new yorkie parents! |
When using the spray bottle for correction, make sure you establish keywords and phrases to connect it to so that Lucy know what she is being corrected for. Give the verbal command first. Maybe something like "settle down."
I would place more emphasis on redirecting both dogs to something more positive to help them find common ground. As I wrote above, for my boys things like trick training and walks kept the younger one focused on good things, rather than just wrestling. Having a daily routine/schedule of activities (meals, walks, playtime, bedtime, etc) also helps settle a puppy and focus them on positive behavior.
I agree with SWHouston's suggestions for putting your boy first for everything and reinforcing his top dog status...unless the first dog is ultra-submissive and would be better off with the second playing lead. It's great that you give Oliver alone time. I still do that for my older boy.