[Gingergirlsmom]

This is from The Sunday Patriot News, December 31, 2006, Pet Lovers Forum:

PET LOVERS FORUM

<H1 class=red>Dogs need a pack order

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Sunday, December 31, 2006



Dear Karen: I'm hoping you can help me with an issue we have with our two female dogs, Casey and Pepper. Casey is a 4-year-old schnoodle; Pepper is a 2-year-old Lhasa poo.
Lately they have been getting into knock-down drag-out fights over a toy or food. I had to pull them apart this morning, because they were on the verge of hurting themselves. Some days one seems in charge, then the other -- which, we don't know. But we know the difference with play fighting -- there is a distinctive difference in tone and other viewings now. Would appreciate any insight on how to deal with this, because I care about my girls and don't want them to get hurt. Donna M. -- Harrisburg


Dear Donna: There's nothing scarier than a catfight between two female dogs! By virtue of gender and size you have a combustible combination there, and both dogs are vying for alpha status. Two adult females of similar size are more likely to fight than other doggie duos. Until the pack order is determined, battles can be downright fierce. You are wise to take action now -- before the clash intensifies.
The situation is manageable if you take precautions. Separating them for feeding should be your first order of business. Food, treats, edible chew toys -- anything consumable could ignite a ferocious fight.
Why? The last thing alpha wannabes share is FOOD. The top dog controls the goodies (once dispensed by the human pack leader) -- the true test of which dog will dominate.
For now, feeding separately in crates will keep the peace during meal time. Be sure to pick up any half-eaten chewies or toys you find lying around. Resist the temptation to treat the girls as equals, which only fuels the fire in a two-dog pack.
While important to break up fights that may cause injury, try not to interfere when they engage in more peaceful negotiations, such as play fighting. Once you see a boss emerging, defer to that dog to help establish the hierarchy. That simply means putting her first for feeding, petting, treats and other privileges. Remember, dogs instinctively need a pack order -- a survival tool of their wolf ancestors. Once established, even the submissive of the two will be more comfortable. Best of luck to you!