Jealousy disrupts doggy household

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DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My two dogs, Jake and Albie, are normally real sweethearts. But over the past few months they have been increasingly nasty to one another. Jake is five years older than Albie, who the shelter told me is about four years old. If Albie sees Jake lying in the sunny corner of the kitchen, he growls and barks. Jake will growl and bark right back. Last week they came very close to fighting. What can I do to stop this once and for all? – Gerry in Las Cruces, New Mexico

DEAR GERRY: Dust off your dog-training manual – you’re going to need it. Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “quiet” and “leave it” are very helpful in defusing a situation between two housemate dogs.

Sometimes dogs exhibit jealous behavior for no apparent reason; other times something has changed in the household, and therefore the overall dynamic – a new roommate, new pet or new baby; shifting the furniture around; or even decorating for the holidays. Whatever the cause, you must re-establish order. Your dogs need to know that no matter what else has changed, you’re still head of the house.

Make sure you show no favoritism. When it’s time for treats, both dogs get treats (and only if they’re both sitting calmly). When one is curled up in his doggy bed, the other should be, too. Take them for longer walks to burn off more energy, and work with them on basic commands.

What if this doesn’t stop their behavior? You will need to separate them into different rooms if a verbal “leave it” command doesn’t work. If their behavior worsens, contact a pet trainer.

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