Of my 6 little guys, three show aggression. My 11 year old Chihuahua, Twinkie, has always been a grumpy old man. The older he gets, the worse he gets.
Gizmo, the only "mutt" we own is different in her aggression. We got her at 7 months of age from the animal shelter. She is going on 5. We should have known by her coat (half short, soft and smooth and half long and wirey) that she had some terrier in her.
When we had my Chinese Crested (PTS this year from old age), McGee was "alpha dog" and we had no problems with Twinkie or Gizmo. She was not physically aggressive but let them know who was boss in other ways. NOW however, the other two both think they are alpha. Gizmo is much younger and a little bigger but Twinkie won't stop the growling and snarling. About once a day they get into it physically, usually at meal time, but it is not really serious. Gizmo WILL snap at US and we have learned how to deal with it so she won't have a chance. That seems to happen mainly when she is excited.
My two Japanese Chin's are pretty much laid back. They will growl occasionally and the smallest will defend her food/treat. B, my tiny long hair Chihuahua wouldn't hurt a fly.
Zachary, my Biewer Yorkie, gets into fights occasionally. But I have noticed it is mainly when he gets EXCITED. He seems to just lose control.
Having 6 dogs of ANY breed is a challenge. I don't think you can have a aggression free house with that many. Caesar Milan may be able to do so but I suspect he is the only one that can.
My guys spat but it is usually more bark than bite. Nobody has ever been hurt, just scared. I wish I had a solution on how to stop it all but I haven't found it yet and doubt if I ever will.
Louise |