Expert: Cassie - 1/25/2008

Question
Hi,
I am very concerned about dominance and possible aggression in two of my three dogs. My partner and I have a  3 year old boxer mix (adopted from a family who was moving to an apartment), a 4 year old cattle dog mix (adopted from the shelter, picked up as a stray) and a 1 year old Toy Fox Terrier (adopted from a rescue group who took him out of a puppy mill). All three are neutered males. The two larger dogs went to "boot camp" about 2 years ago, but lately they seem to have become increasingly dominant-growling if we make them get off the bed, jumping up on us, etc. The boxer is food aggressive with other dogs. They have never bitten a person. What concerns me is that yesterday they attacked and killed one of my cats-no growling, no warning, just attacked. I think the cat may have somehow triggered their prey drive, but I am still concerned for the small dog and the cat, and even wondering if they are trustworthy with us. The vet suggested antianxiety medication and behavior modification training, but I am in law school and have limited time and money.I hate to think of having to euthanize them, but I would feel terrible if something like that were to happen again.I'd love to hear what you have to say about this.Thank you!

Answer
First of all, I'd like to point out that there is no need for euthanizing, but I'm afraid that you will be forced to choose between your cat, and your dogs. Your dogs have a large prey drive and are obviously not compatable with small animals. You are lucky that your dogs' aggression has not escalated to the level of hostility toward humans, besides the dominance issue, which can be fixed with some time and effort. The type of aggression famous canine behaviorist "Cesar Millan" would consider it to be is a "red zone" case. Your dogs do need some serious rehabilitaion. Visit this website for more info: www.cesarmillaninc.com. Send in a video submission so you can be on his show and he can help you with your problem. Purchase one of his books as well. They are a must-have for all dog owners! Please visit my past answers page so you can find an effective way to "punish" your dogs. My past answers can be viewed here: http://en.allexperts.com/q/Canine-Behavior-3553/2008/1/aggressive-towards-other-...