Expert: Alan J Turner, SATS LL1 - 3/31/2008

Question
I have a Lab Mix possibly Lab/Pit. Lucy is 1 year & 2 month old. She tends to fight with my Chiwauwa Mix who is a male about 6 years old. I can't pet Peanuts nor hold him, because my lab will attack him. She pins him down to where he can not move. She doesn't bit him but mostly growls and snaps. Lucy doesn't let him move until he stops growling and fighting back. I feel so bad for him cause he is already old and his not a spring chicken! I would like to know what can I do to stop her from being so jealous? Please help!

Answer
Dear Rosa,
Thanks for writing. Basically you'll need to train the young dog. Teach her what you want - instead of focusing on what you don't want. Teach her to sit, down and stay. Practice sit, down and stay, first with no distractions, then add distractions little by little. Once she can perform with distractions, you can practice when the older pup is in the room, near you, in your arms.

In the meantime, attach a leash and prevent her from mugging your older pup.

If you need training instructions, Patricia McConnell has written several great training books. She has another good book, Feeling Outnumbered? How to Manage and Enjoy a Multi-Dog Household.

Good luck and thanks for writing!

Alan J Turner
http://howsbentley.com