Hi Terri, I am so very sorry for the loss of a child to CF. It is a horrible disease. And I know that doggy problems can make us feel so helpless and worried. I think Dawn gave you some good insight to what may be going on.
My suggestion is to be the PLP (Parent/ Provider, Leader, and Protector). Let you girls and Gilbert know that you won't put up with this. A firm NO, Attttattt sound or other cue word you have chosen should be used every time they get out of line. You can use time outs, a quick spray of water, hand clap etc.. What ever feels natural to you. Be consistent. The idea is NOT to punish, but to correct, redirect and train.
You may want to change the way you feed them. I feed my five in their crate. Free feeding is not a good idea with more than two dogs. The food bowl is often a place bossiness can escalate into real fights. (Remember if you do have a fight, grab back legs do not put your hands between their faces !) I will send you a link to Nothing In Life is Free this will help reestablish your PLP role.
__________________ Teresa & Rubin, Gracie, Abba, Ginny Joy and Julia Rose  Act like a dog, be kind, forgiving, and loyal. |