Please tell me it get's better!!
 

Hey there! I am mostly a lurker, but need some help. Here is some background - we have 2 Yorkies (litter mates) Sioux & Dakota. Sioux is the alpha dog, and she is pretty bossy. Dakota was the runt, and very playful and loud. My niece is living with us and has a Yorkie that is 6 weeks younger than ours (all are almost 2 yrs old). So, our vet knows we are a Yorkie family and we rescued a 4 month old Yorkie/Bichon mix on Friday night. He is matted, skinny, and in need of love. So - we introduced the dogs on neutral grounds at my brothers house (he has a Yorkie, too). Sioux growls and nips at Spencer (new pup), and Dakota just barks at him.

We have tried to give everyone equal attention, but Sioux & Dakota seem really put out. Sebastian (niece's Yorkie) is fine, and Hershey (brother's Yorkie) is fine too. I don't want to think this was a mistake, but I am worried about Sioux & Dakota...do you think they will come around? How long does it take to gain acceptance? Has anyone had a similar situation? My brother would take Spencer in a heartbeat, but we babysit when he works, so it wouldn't change the whole dynamic. Any thoughts and wishes are appreciated. You guys are amazing - you have no idea how much I have learned just by lurking. I look forward to your responses.

I wouldn't try to give equal attention. I would, especially, give Sioux, and Dakota, too, more attention. Give them more attention, so they know they aren't being thrust into the background. It was their home first. They come first. Give them their food and treats first, as well. Have you tried walking Sioux and Spencer together to see if you can help them to bond?

Sometimes these things take care of themselves after a few weeks or longer. Sometimes it gets worse. I hope things work out for you.

Maybe take them to a dog park where there is no territory issue. They might learn to play and run around together.

Thanks - Spencer is sleeping with my niece and Sebastian tonight, and I have been spending quality time with Sioux & Dakota tonight. It has been really cold (10 degrees with below 0 wind chills), but when it warms up this week I will take them for a walk - great idea. It means a lot that you took time to respond. I will be working on showering them with love and reassurance.

If you have the time, please keep us updated how things go with this situation.:)