Re: Change of Behavior in Female

In Reply to: Change of Behavior in Female
Category:   Behavior Problems
Posted by:  Camille Reinhold
Posted on:  January 21, 2003 at 16:14:05

: I have a 3 year old female JRT and a 3 year old male JRT which I have had since they were puppies (both were fixed as puppies). They are both very loving and actually very well behaved. Recently, the female will for no reason go after the male, growl and snap at him. He won't fight back he just tries to run away. She also doesn't want the male sitting next to me. Is there anything I can do to stop this sudden aggression she has towards the male. Other times she wants to sleep next to him and is very affectionate towards him.

Response:

Hi Camille,

It sounds to me like your female is establishing herself dominant over the male. If this is indeed what is taking place I urge you to treat her as dominant over him.

You do this by feeding her first, petting her first, giving her treats and toys first etc. This will usually lessen aggression in the dominant dog because they then feel there is no competition.

I know it sounds like a horrible thing to do to the other dog, but believe me, the less dominant dog will be relieved to not have to deal with aggression.

Once she relaxes and feels her place in the pack is secure, she might even ease up when he sits near you.

I can't guarantee the change will happen overnight but give this a try, in a bit of time you should see a difference in behavior.