Pack structure – follow the leader
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I have three dogs (once upon a time it was four) which can be very chaotic at times, for example; when the door bell rings, the 4th of July and anytime my girls start rough housing. It just takes one dog to bark (usually Sammy), and suddenly all three of them are going nuts. While I consider myself I strong pack leader, I do get frustrated when they start acting up. Of course that only gets the whole gang more excited. Usually problems in multi-dog households occur when the owners treat their animals like human children. Our pets may be as destructive, demanding and adorable as a two year old, especially when they’re decked out in sweaters and sparkling pet tags. However, dogs are not toddlers who can be given a time out until they learn to play nice.
Does the following sound familiar?
"They play together fabulously, but whenever there is food involved, Beth will growl and lunge at Suzie, and it seems to be getting worse. If Suzie is on the bed, Beth will come up and start snarling and growling and then try to attack Suzie. If we are not quick enough to grab Beth's collar to stop her she will hit Suzie with her mouth hard enough to make Suzie cry out. Putting Beth in a closed room stops it, but that doesn't seem fair to her."
Dogs do not understand the concepts of sharing, equality, or playing nice. Dogs understand dominance and submission. A dog’s life is one big game of follow the leader. Dogs who don’t see their people as leaders, will often attempt to take on the role themselves. An insecure dog will become aggressive when attempting to control and dominate the other dogs in the house.
The only way to maintain a multi-dog home is to take control back from the beasts. This can be done by correcting the problem behavior before it escalates. At the first sign of posturing, give correction. This can be done through a firm touch or by using a leash to redirect the dog’s attention. Grabbing your pet’s collar when they’re on high alert may cause them to direct their aggressive behavior towards you. Don’t wait until one of your beloved pets or people gets bitten. Take a stand and take charge in your home.
