Dog Fights?

sheltieluver · 09-22-2008, 01:57 PM

I was hoping someone can give me some guidance as I've never had this happen before. I've always believed in having 2 dogs to keep each other company while I'm working (I had two wonderful shelties that I still miss). We recently rescued a male, neutered Jack Russsell terrier (approx 6 mos-year?) and a week ago rescued a female, spayed, sheltie mix (approx 1-2 years). They get along good for the most part, play together, sleep together, etc. but my husband has had to seperate them twice so far in a week and our JRT got bit close to the eye and needed a stitch. This can't be normal behavior and I don't want to get rid of either dog. We watch them closely but this has happened on occassion when we didn't supervise them (husband in the front yard, dogs in back). Any suggestions/ideas why this is happening? Should it be a cause for concern? Should I give this more time and have more patience? I just don't want to have to rush one of them to the vet with any injury(ies). Appreciate any input.

GroovyGroomer777 · 09-22-2008, 05:08 PM

Is it possible they are just playing but very roughly? Sometimes rough play escalates and the owner just needs to step in at that point.

Perhaps since they are both new to your home they are trying to establish who is the dominant dog?

I would say more time and just make sure to supervise. Since they are getting along well besides a few scuffles I wouldn't do anything to drastic yet. I recently added a new girl to my pack and I had to break up a few scuffles myself. I know it can be stressfull! I just kept a close watch and intervened when I knew things were getting hot. Now everyones getting along just fine.

Be patient like you said, and as long as you or your hubs is watching there should be no serious injuries.

I'm not a dog trainer btw, just speaking from personal experience. If things are getting out of hand ask for the help of a professional.

zimandtakandgrrandmimi · 09-22-2008, 05:33 PM

being "testy" is pretty straighforward behavior for a terrier....

when they are alone together are there any toys, or high value items that could cause a squabble? if so try removing those first. No toys or food or chews available when they are alone together..personally especially with terriers I (not knocking you) don't think unsupervised time is a great idea but that is just imo.

I would start nilif right away.

good luck.

sheltieluver · 09-23-2008, 08:23 AM

Thanks...appreciate your comments. I believe you are right that the play just escalates. I work full time but my husband is at home and does not watch them 100% of the time. I told him to seperate them once in awhile - maybe together too much! There are no toys or high value items left in the yard. We had rawhides out there they fought over but took all those out of the yard. I don't want to do anything drastic but it is extremely stressful. I plan to give it a lot more time and also more attention in the evenings and weekends when I am home.

Dogstar · 09-23-2008, 09:50 AM

It sounds like they are BOTH very enw to your home. Frankly, I wouldn't be leaving them alone unsupervised EVER right now- not even for a few minutes.

zimandtakandgrrandmimi · 09-23-2008, 10:45 AM

commented only on the terrier because I have known a bajillion terriers...

I have never actually met a sheltie face to face...the only one near me gets dragged away by her panicked owner everytime she sees me because the owner is scared of my dogs...

I can only comment on what is in my experience....and then...its only comment...