How to Train a Puppy to Respect an Older Dog

Hello Keira, In this scenario the puppy is actually more than half the problem. When a dog jumps on a dog that has not indicated that it wants to play, the jumper is being rude and not responding to canine social cues. Be an advocate for your older dog and work on boundaries with the puppy so that Jack feels like he can relax around the puppy. Don't necessarily expect Jack to play with the puppy. He may never want to play with him and that's okay as long as they can peacefully coexist and simply enjoy each other's company. Work on obedience and structure with both dogs to help them listen and respect you and not compete with each other. If both dogs respect you and you make and enforce the rules then they don't have to - which can help prevent fights. Teach both dogs (especially the puppy) "Out" (which means leave the area). Use the command to let the puppy know when he should get out of Jack's space. Get in front of the puppy, point to where he should go, tell him "Out" and firmly but calmly walk toward him, making him back out of the area. Block him from going back until he gives up trying to get back there or leaves the area completely. When he gives up, return to the area yourself to see if he follows you. If he follows you, tell him "Ah Ah" and walk him out of the area again. Repeat this until he stops following you back in. When you want him to come back, tell him "Okay!". Doing out communicates that you want a dog to respect a certain space that belongs to you. It also tells them that a certain thing belongs to you and they should respect that also (a child or another dog typically). You can use "Out" for Jack too when he is behaving poorly toward the puppy. When Jack is being tolerant, give him treats (not right next to the puppy though because you want to avoid competing for food). When the puppy enters the room, feed Jack treats. When the puppy leaves the room, all treats stop - you want the treats to be associated with the puppy. Supervise the dogs and make sure they both have their own space. Crate training at least the puppy will help with that a lot. I also suggest teaching both dogs a good Place command so that they can simply get used to being in the same room with each other but be relaxing. Place can also help with self-control (for puppy), respect and calmness. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo#dialog Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Diane, I suggest that you hire a professional trainer who uses both fair corrections and positive reinforcement to come to your home. The new puppies likely generally need more structure and boundaries. All dogs need to look to you to make and enforce the rules, so that none of them will bully another dog. Right now they are likely vying for who is going to be in charge, and if the older dog is generally more timid personality-wise, then the puppies are probably taking advantage of that and finding it fun to pester the older dog. Puppies also just tend to be obsessed with older dogs and have not learned doggie manners yet. Following an older dog around and constantly trying to wrestle and play is normal - especially when that dog won't pay attention to them. That doesn't mean that it should continue but they are probably doing what comes naturally to them when there is a lack of boundaries to teach them otherwise. They need to be taught those manners by you so that your older dog doesn't have to use aggression to teach them. Once you are enforcing the rules, rewarding your older dog for being tolerant and calm, and giving the dogs more time apart, your older dog will likely begin to relax more. If not, you need someone to help you in person because the trainer will need to evaluate the dog's body language and interactions to see what's really going on. To start, crate train the puppies if you have not already done so. They need a calm place by themselves where they can chew on food-stuffed chew toys and relax. This is important. It is also important that they spend time alone to teach them to self-entertain and self-soothe, rather than be completely reliant on you or the other puppy's presence. Fill a hollow chew toy like a Kong with dog food that has been soaked in water until mushy, and mixed the food with a bit of liver paste, cheese or peanut butter (Avoid Xylitol sweetener -- it's toxic!). You can make several of these toys ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them. They can even eat all of their daily food out of the Kongs and as treat rewards for obedience, and you do not have to use food bowls at all at this age. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Decide what your household rules for all dogs will be. Some examples are: "No pestering a dog that wants to be left alone", "No stealing another dog's food or toys", "No pushing another dog out of the way - usually to get food or attention", "No blocking another dog from getting to a space", "No claiming you by standing on your lap and acting aggressively or pushy towards another person or dog", "No acting possessive of furniture and keeping another dog from coming over", "No acting aggressive toward another dog or person", "No barking at another dog when he wants to be left alone". When one dog breaks a rule, you be the one to handle it so that the other dog does not have to. For example, if one dog steals another dog's toy, take the toy away from the thief, return it to the dog that originally had it, and make the thief leave the room. If one dog is trying to sneak over to another dog's food while he is eating (Do not free feed the dogs! - all food should be removed after fifteen minutes unless a dog is eating in the crate where another dog cannot bother him), then get in front of the sneaky thief, tell him "Out", point to where the dog should go, and walk toward him until he leaves the area. If he does not move when you say "Out" and start walking, don't be afraid to move him with your legs by walking toward him. Leaving is not optional for the dog. Shuffle your feet rather than lift them if you end up having to walk into him, so that you do not step on him while moving. When he is out of the area, block him from going back over to the other dog -- pretend like you are a soccer goalie or a brick wall. When the dog stops trying to get past you, return to the dog that's eating to see if the thief tries to follow you back. If he follows you, then repeat walking toward him until he leaves again. Repeat this process until you can stand next to the dog that's eating or leave the room, and the thief stays out of that area - away from the eating dog. When you are ready for the dog to go back into the area you told him to leave, then tell him "Okay!" in an excited tone of voice. You can use the "Out" command to teach the dogs to respect each other's space in other ways too. When one dog is bothering another dog, tell the problematic dog "Out!" in a firm but calm tone of voice, and enforce it like you did with the eating dog above. I also suggest teaching the puppies "Place" and practicing them each having a visible, consistent "Place" spot that they can go to and lay on with a toy and stay there. Finally, don't expect the older dog to play with the puppies. The goal here is peaceful co-existence. When the puppies are older and there have been more boundaries and less anxiety, the older dog might decide that she wants to play, but if that never happens and the dogs can peacefully hang around one another, that is still great. Older dogs and puppies play very differently, so not all older dogs will want to play with puppies. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Kien, It sounds like Lucky is bored and making up games to get attention. Since he's not allowed to bark out the window he is simply doing the same thing in a different location to get her attention. I suggest teaching him the "Quiet" command, rewarding him whenever you catch him playing calmly and nicely (and being quiet), and giving him something else to do besides bark. An AutoTrainer or Pet Tutor could be a good investment for him. It works by releasing a treat when it senses he is calm or quiet for a certain amount of time. You can also feed him his meals in food stuffed chew toys like Kong's, Kong wobble toys, or puzzle toys. Finally, you can correct the barking with a remote training device and collar like I mentioned in you last question about barking at dinner. To get Sweet Pea used to other dogs will be a long process honestly but it is doable if you are willing to put in a lot of work. Socialization is typically done while dogs are still puppies and haven't developed fear. It would involve taking her places with other dogs, rewarding her with her favorite treats, toys, and games whenever she sees another dog and stays calm (while the dog is far enough away for her to stay calm). I would also suggest practing a lot of obedience with her with dogs in the distance (such as heel, sit, watch me, and come) and rewarding her for obedience and focus. The training will keep her mind on you and get her in a following made with you so that she can trust you more and relax more. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello keira, Crate training is usually very good for dogs with separation anxiety. It can be harder on the person to watch the dog work through it, but dogs with separation anxiety need opportunities to practice independence and self-soothing. So crate training if done correctly can be great. Check out the article that I have linked below to introduce the crate. I typically recommend the "Surprise" method but you can use all three methods at the same time. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate You will also want to work on commands that require her to stay, be further from you, and be calmer. "Place" and teaching a dog to stay in a crate with the crate door open (once you have introduced the crate) are also good exercises for this: Place command: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Crate manners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mn5HTiryZN8 Work up to having Pixie stay on Place or in the crate for up to an hour. Start with shorter amount of time and gradually work up to longer, then work up to her staying there even when you walk out of the room and around the house. Outside, practicing Down and Sit Stays from a distance using a long leash is also great. In addition to those things walks should be pretty structured, where she is heeling by your side and not ranging ahead or distracted. Dogs with anxiety tend to do well with structure and boundaries and need time to practice independence. Those types of exercises give them opportunities to work through their anxiety while you are guiding them, and eventually build their confidence. At first, it can seem like the anxiety is worse because they are having to deal with their anxiety, but as they work through it, you should see more improvement little by little. I suggest starting with the above training. Those things might be all that you need to change her state of mind over the next few months. If you find she is still having a hard time, check out the link below for more intensive training. https://www.solidk9training.com/sk9-blog/2013/02/21/separation-anxiety-im-not-seeing-it-at-my-place SolidK9Training also has a few videos on YouTube that touch on Separation Anxiety too. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Jacqueline, It sounds like pup is resource guarding you, which is partially an issue with pup not respecting you - dog's who resource guard tend to think that they own whatever they are guarding - which is you in this case. Work on building pup's respect for you and desensitizing pup to your other dog's presence around you. I suggest hiring a professional trainer who specializes in aggression for this process. Look for someone who comes well recommended by their previous clients who had similar issues. Teach pup respect building commands like heel, down, place, and have pup work for everything they get in life right now. Check out the working method from the article linked below for details on how to do that. Also check out the consistency method and obedience method and be implementing the tips from those as well. https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-doberman-to-listen-to-you Attach pup to a leash and tether the leash to something secure, practice having your other dog walk past at a distance from you and your dog (who should be tethered and in Down or on Place - not touching you), and reward your dog for ignoring the other dog passing by and being tolerant. Your attitude should be calm and business-like and confident during this. As pup improves, gradually decrease the distance that your other dog passes. Work with a trainer to further build pup's respect, correct in appropriate ways during outbursts, and desensitize pup to your other dog walking past, coming to you, and working with you. Place, Down, Leave It, and Out - which means leave that area are all very important commands for your puppy to know right now. Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Thresholds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-w28C2g68M Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Down-Stay: https://www.thelabradorsite.com/train-your-labrador-to-lie-down-and-stay/ Heel- Turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Kim, The lab needs to be taught "Leave It" and "Out" commands. Check out the "Leave It" method from the article linked below. https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite She also needs a lot of structure and boundaries. Learning a Place command, crate manners, a structured heel, and other things that build self-control. You cannot change personality but you can stimulate her mentally and teach better self-control to help her focus her energy on the things you want her to focus on instead. The pestering is normal. Young dogs have to be taught to be respectful. That doesn't mean it's okay, just not surprising. When she tries to pester Patches you can also enforce the leave it command for Patches - if she continues biting or pestering her after being told Leave It (which you must teach first), you can get between her and the Patches (carefully, if there is aggression keep a drag leash on her and use that to redirect), tell her "Out", and firmly walking toward her until she backs all the way out of the room. Block her from getting back to them, then when she calms down or leaves, go back to what you were doing before. If she goes back over to them again without being told "Okay!" first, then repeat walking toward her until she is out of the area, while saying "Out" in a calm and firm tone of voice. Repeat this until she gets realizes you mean business and leaves Patches alone. At first, expect to have to repeat this a lot. The more consistent you are, the sooner she should realize you mean what you say. Here are some commands to practice to increase her respect for the humans in the household and her self-control. Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Crate manners: https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-the-crate/ Thresholds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-w28C2g68M Heel article - The turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Heel Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTiKVc4ZZWo When there are two dogs in a household together it is very important for both dogs to trust and respect the owner so that the owner is the one making and enforcing house rules for both dogs - and not the dogs trying to do that for each other, which could lead to fights. Advocate for your older dog by working on self-control and commands that teach the lab to leave it and get Out of the area, so that your Cocker does not feel the need to defend herself. When both dogs are being tolerant (Patches) and calm (the lab) remember to calmly reward both with a treat or calm praise. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Sherry, He likely lacks social manners, which is even more reason why he needs the puppy play. It will take a lot of repetition for him to learn self-control and to connect that play time ends with his roughness. The average dog takes thirty repetitions before they learn something new and puppies have even less attention. Continue interrupting his play and refocusing his attention, then letting him go back to playing only when he is calm. Also, when you interrupt his play use the "Out" command (which means leave the area) and use your body to herd him out of the area so that he learns spacial awareness also. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ At first expect him to get excited when you herd him away from the other puppy after saying Out. Stay firm, calm and persistent until he calms down and complies, blocking him from going back until he calms down and looks at you or away from the other puppies. It will take repetition for him to realize what you are doing (wanting him away from the other puppy) and why it is happening (he was too rough). When he is calm, if the other puppy wants to play, let him back by telling him "Okay" or "Go Play". Many puppies or dogs will hump as a way to pester another dog into playing. It is simply over excitement and poor social skills most of the time at this age. The puppy is also probably a bit dominant and pushy too, so structure and consistent rules for this pup while growing up will be important. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Luke, Sometimes an older dog's body language will start to show it. The older dog will become less patient, a bit rougher, or try to get away from the puppy. When it doubt, remove the puppy, let both dogs calm down, then tell your older og "Okay" and invite him to play with your puppy again. If he wants to continue playing, great, you can let them. If he doesn't want to initiate playing, then make the puppy give him space. He has had enough for now. The key is to watch the older dog's body language and see if he wants to initiate playing, opposed to puppy starting it when in doubt. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Tillie, First, I suggest joining a puppy kindergarten class that includes time for moderated off leash play, where the trainer has owners interrupt the play when puppies start to get too rough or overwhelmed. Puppies play with each other differently than adult dogs and playing with puppies helps a pup learn to be gentler with their mouth because of the feedback they get from other puppies ("If you bite me too hard I yelp and stop playing" for instance). In addition to bite inhibition (controlling the pressure of a bite) a puppy class provides socialization with people, obedience, and new experiences - all of which are vital for puppies. Look for a class that requires all of the pups to be up to date with vaccines for their age, cleans the floor with a cleaner that kills parvo and distemper right before class, and prevents other potentially -un-vaccinated dogs from entering the puppy area once things have been cleaned. Carry your puppy into the cleaned area to avoid the ground where unvaccinated dogs may have been, and when you take her potty, choose an area where other dogs are not very likely to have gone - even if that means walking a good bit away from the building. Taking these measures helps minimize the risk of puppies catching diseases and allows you to join a class earlier, before the key socialization period ends at 12-16 weeks of age. Check out the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior's view on puppy socialization and age precautions. https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Puppy_Socialization_Position_Statement_Download_-_10-3-14.pdf Check out the article linked below and follow the "Bite Inhibition" to further help puppy learn to be gentler with her mouth at home: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Finally, work on teaching an "Out" command to both dogs (which means get away from the area you are in). Use this command to enforce Tillie leaving your older dog alone when things get too rough, and your older dog leaving Tillie alone when needed. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ If you don't trust your older dog to be patient with the puppy, then do not let them play together. Tillie can get the socialization she needs from playing with other puppies. If your older dog is likely to lash out, it would be better for her to learn to simply be calm around your older dog, and for your older dog to do the same. Work on Out with both dogs, as well as Place, and stay to redirect them when they start to get rough. Give them structured things to do together like heeling on the leash and practicing obedience commands together. Dogs in the same household do not have to play together, they can simply learn to hang out and be calm when playing together may create other issues for those particular dogs - you don't want a dog that is likely to lash out at a puppy to teach the puppy through aggression to be unsocial with others also - that is how poor social skills get passed on to dogs in the same household. When you cannot supervise the dogs together, have Tillie spend time in a crate or exercise pen with a food stuffed Kong and other fun and safe toys, so that she cannot pester your older dog without you there to redirect and help them learn. As she gets older, calms down, and learns the house rules, you can give her more freedom if the dogs are doing well together. Confinement when you cannot supervise is also important for potty training and preventing destructive chewing - which can actually get worse again around 5-7 months due to jaws developing at that time. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Cassandra, I suggest teaching an "Out" command - which means leave the area. If she doesn't listen to your Out command when you use it, after you have spent time teaching it so that she understands, then use your body language to enforce the command by getting between the puppy and your older dog and calmly but firmly blocking your puppy from behind able to get to your older dog, then walking toward your puppy until she backs out of the area where your older dog is. Expect to have to do this several times in a row for her to give up and respect boundaries whenever you do this - at first. The more consistent you are about doing it and enforcing your Out command, the better her listening skills should improve with that command. By using your body language this way you are essentially "claiming" your older dog and telling her to respect his space even if he doesn't do that himself. Be patient and persistent, this will take time and practice to teach, but is a very useful command to have. Check out the article linked below for steps to teach Out and for how to enforce Out to improve pushy behavior Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Allison, You need to hire a trainer to help you train Max to a high level of obedience and create more structure in his life. He should learn to calmly coexist with Maggie and never to play with her. He needs to learn a solid, long, high distraction Place command, a Leave It command, an Out command, and generally have a lot more structure in his life. Since you said he acts aggressively toward you, the issue with Maggie is just one symptom of his need for more boundaries, respect, structure, and obedience. I highly suggest hiring a trainer who is very experienced with driven breeds, aggression, large breeds, strong-willed dogs, who comes well recommended, uses positive reinforcement and fair corrections both. Max needs to work for everything he gets in life for a while and essentially be in doggie boot camp, heeling, staying on place, doing commands before he gets anything he wants, learning impulse control and calmness. This needs to be done with the help of a trainer to avoid you being bitten. You may also want to get him used to wearing a soft silicone basket muzzle while you are working on the training yourself. Out: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Working method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-doberman-to-listen-to-you Dog Training Do’s https://www.solidk9training.com/sk9-blog/2016/09/08/the-ten-commandments-of-dog-training-and-ownership-do-2 Again, hire a trainer to guide you through the training and get Max used to wearing a basket muzzle (he will still be able to open his mouth with a basket type) if he has shown aggression toward you. You can use his daily kibble as rewards for tolerating the muzzle. To introduce the muzzle, first place it on the ground and sprinkle his meal kibble around it. Do this until he is comfortable eating around it. Next, when he is comfortable with it being on the floor with food, hold it up and reward him with a piece of kibble every time he touches or sniffs it in your hand. Feed him his whole meal this way. Practice this until he is comfortable touching it. Next, hold a treat inside of it through the muzzle's holes, so that he has to poke his face into it to get the treat. As he gets comfortable doing that, gradually hold the treat further down into the muzzle, so that he has to poke his face all the way into the muzzle to get the treat. Practice until he is comfortable having his face in it. Next, feed several treats in a row through the muzzle's holes while he holds his face in the muzzle for longer. Practice this until he can hold his face in it for at least ten seconds while being fed treats. Next, when he can hold his face in the muzzle for ten seconds while remaining calm, while his face is in the muzzle move the muzzle's buckles together briefly, then feed him a treat through the muzzle. Practice this until he is not bothered by the buckles moving back and forth. Next, while he is wearing the muzzle buckle it and unbuckle it briefly, then feed a treat. As he gets comfortable with this step, gradually keep the muzzle buckled for longer and longer while feeding treats through the muzzle occasionally. Next, gradually increase how long he wears the muzzle for and decrease how often you give him a treat, until he can calmly wear the muzzle for at least an hour without receiving treats more than two treats during that hour. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Sydney, It sounds like your pup may have the stronger personality between the three. The growling and nipping is probably his way of trying to play but is just rude about it since he hasn't learned to be more respectful yet. This pup will probably need a lot more structure in general than your other two dogs, and that's alright. First, I suggest teaching the Out command (which means leave the area) and the Leave It command using the methods from the articles linked below. For the Out method, be sure to also read the section about how to use Out to deal with pushy behavior. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Second, work on commands that build respect, self-control, and calmness in general this year. Remember to still be patient with him, he may have a strong personality but he is still a puppy and doing what is normal for many puppies at this age - he simply needs your guidance to learn respect, trust, self-control, and calmness so that he can enjoy being with your other two dogs. Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Crate manners: https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-the-crate/ Thresholds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-w28C2g68M Heel article - The turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Heel Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTiKVc4ZZWo Dog Training Do’s https://www.solidk9training.com/sk9-blog/2016/09/08/the-ten-commandments-of-dog-training-and-ownership-do-2 Finally, reward him calmly when you randomly catch him making good choices, like lying down quietly without having to be told, being calm around your other dogs, or looking to you for direction. Use soft praise and calmer body language with him to help him stay calm. If you are not already doing it, crate train him and use an exercise pen with food stuffed chew toys in the pen and crate, to give him a calm, safe place to play and rest when you are not able to directly supervise him with your older dogs, or when he gets overly rambunctious - many puppies will actually get more excited when tired, and need some quiet time in order to calm back down. Surprise method for introducing the crate and pen: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Shelly, First, continue using the crate and an exercise for pup to be in when you cannot supervise her and the older dogs together. Second, feed all the dogs in separate crates with the doors locked so that there are not empty or full food bowls around to guard. Keep the doors of the crates closed when no one is in the crate to prevent the other dogs from snooping around each others crates for food - which could make Koda feel upset. When you are supervising, teach all the dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for all the dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls or nips at your pup, make koda leave the room while also disciplining pup if she did something she shouldn't have. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want her to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression. At the same time Koda needs to learn that it is not her job to manage pup and that she has to let you handle any issues and not deal with it herself - she is not in charge of pup. You are in charge of all the dogs. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. If Koda isn't listening to you well, have her work for what she gets in life by having to do a command first. For example, have her sit before being let outside, lie down before being petting, wait before being fed, Watch Me before you throw a toy, ect...sometimes dogs feel insecure because there is a lack of respect for the human in the house and that needs to be calmly dealt with. That doesn't necessarily sound like the case here but keep an eye out for it. Also, spend some time learning about canine body language. Watch for subtle signs that Koda is getting stressed. She likely is giving off warning signals but they are vague and pup hasn't learned to recognize them yet. Look for freezing, stiffening, raised hair on back, a quiet lifted lip, a hard stare, a tail that is raised where the tail meets her back, and ears back - which is more a sign of discomfort and anxiety, which can proceed aggression. Don't baby, reward, or pet Koda when she is behaving aggressively or tense. Instead be confident, firm, and calm. When she is tolerant, relaxed, and friendly you can pet, praise and reward to encourage that behavior instead of tenseness and aggression. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Beckkie, If you feel overwhelmed, things are getting worse, or there is a bite, then I would seek professional help. Aggression is something best addressed immediately or it can get worse, so if you feel good about working through it yourself you can try the below suggestions, but if you are not seeing improvement or feel overwhelmed by it, then you may want to hire someone who is very experienced with aggression to come to your home and help one-on-one with you (obedience classes aren't enough - you need someone who has a lot of experience with behavior issues to address it with the dogs and teach you how to manage it in real time). Work on taking the pressure off of both dogs by mediating situations for them, work on commands that improve calmness and self-control, and make and enforce the rules so that the dogs are not working it out themselves - you are telling them how to react and behavior in a calm but firm way. I suggest teaching both dogs Out (which means leave the area) and Place - which is similar to Stay but on a certain spot and they can sit, stand, or lie down but can't get off the spot. Practicing Place with both dogs in the same room on separate place beds can help facilitate calmness around each other and respect for you. Out is great for giving direction and giving a consequence of leaving the room when there is pushiness or mild resource guarding. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo I also suggest crate training both dogs so that they can have a calm place to chew on a chew toy away from each other when things are tense, or one dog is pestering the other, or you are not home to supervise while they are still getting to know each other. Crate training is an important potty training and safety measure for a young pup also. An open crate while you are home can also serve as an additional Place to practice, and feeding both dogs in separate locked crates can prevent food resource guarding and remove stress around mealtimes! Even if you don't crate train your older dog, do crate train pup so that they can be in the crate or exercise pen when you aren't able to supervise the dog's together, and to keep pup safe in general from chewing and getting into things. Surprise method - for introducing crate for first time: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem, you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your other dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If he obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your other dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your other dog. If your older dog pushes pup or gets between you and pup uninvited, tell your older dog Out and enforce him leaving. When he is waiting for his turn patiently, then send pup to place and invite Dexter over - no demanding of attention right now from either dog. Make them wait or do a command first to work for your attention if pushiness is an issue, and make them leave if being pushy or aggressive. If your older dog growls at pup, make him leave the room while also carefully disciplining pup if pup antagonized him. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for them to learn respect for each other because you have taught it to them and not because they have used aggression. When pup first enters the room, give your older dog a treat without pup seeing so pup is associated with good things for your older dog - treats stop when pup leaves. When your older dog is being calm, tolerant, and friendly without acting dominant and pushy toward pup, you can also calmly give a treat. Keep the energy calm when interacting with the dogs. Don't feel sorry for either dog but give clear boundaries instead. Don't expect them to be best friends right now - the goal is calm co-existence. When puppy matures and they have learned good manners around each other, they may decide to be friends as adults, but calmness, tolerance, and co-existence comes first. You want your older dog to learn to be tolerant and look to you for direction within a month, but how soon they will play and truly enjoy each other depends a lot on the specific dog. Some dogs do great once they have some good boundaries and have established a bit of trust and respect with your help, others may not be buddies until the puppy is an adult and calmer. My own older dog was tolerant of our younger dog as a puppy and looked to me when there was an issue due to training, but they did not actively play together until my younger dog was about a year old. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Niahm, first Crate Train the puppy. Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed (which will mostly be puppy right now it sounds like). Follow the steps in the article below for teaching Out, then also follow the steps for How to Use Out to Deal with Pushiness section of the article, and step between pup and your older dog and be the one to walk toward the puppy until he backs out of the area. When Fudge gets really wound up he likely also needs some quiet time to chew on a food stuffed chew toy in an exercise pen or crate - many puppies get wound up when overtired or if they haven't been exercised that day or mentally stimulated. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If he obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make her leave the room while also disciplining pup if needed. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want her to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after him while you are home, you can also clip him to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that he has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Finally, whenever your older dog is being tolerant, friendly, or calm around the puppy sneak her a treat (try not to let pup see the treat so he doesn't run over to your dog). Also, whenever puppy first enters the room give your Tara a treat before she reacts fearfully or aggressively (if it ever gets to that point). Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Margaret, It sounds like she was never socialized around men while very young. Men are more intimidating in general for most dogs. How long have you had her? If you just adopted her, he needs to give it more time and try to be patient with her - it will be easier for him to be patient if he feels like he knows what to do about the issue probably. I suggest having him use her daily meal kibble as rewards for being calm around him. Check out the video linked below for an example of this. Whenever he is able, have him feed her her entire meal this way. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIJoEJfTS-E I also suggest doing confidence building exercises with her in general: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elvtxiDW6g0 Finally, when your husband can get closer as she gets more comfortable around him, then have him teach her things like heel, basic obedience commands, and tricks to build their bond and her trust in him. Obedience is a great way to build trust and respect without intimidation. I would hire a trainer right now to help you with socialization. You can learn to do it yourself but you absolutely cannot afford to wait to get her around new people, and it will be easier if you have someone to guide you. Ask questions and make sure the person you hire has a lot of experience with behavior problems, fear, and puppies. When you get her around new people, you need to be calm, confident, and upbeat - praising her and rewarding her with treats for calmness, tolerance, and investigating new things. Have strangers toss her treats while she is calm and not barking to help her associate them with good things. When she can handle being around strangers and family, then have calm friends practice getting her used to touch by feeding her a treat while gently touching her somewhere - as soon as the treat is gone the touch stops. Practice this with her yourself first, then have family members practice it with her, before having trusted friends also help you. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Ian, I highly suggest hiring a trainer who will come to your home to help with the aggression. In the meantime Max may need to wear a basket muzzle when in the same space as buddy. Max probably needs a lot more structure and respect for your family. It sounds like he may be possessive of you - which is partially an issue of him not respecting you enough. Hire a trainer who specializes in aggression, work on building his respect for you, adding a lot of structure into his routine (making him work and do obedience), and putting rules in place for the dogs and you being the one to enforce it so dogs don't. Have him work for everything he gets for a while by having him perform a command first. For example, have him sit before you feed him, lay down before you pet him, look at you before you take him outside, ect.. If he nudges you, climbs into your lap uninvited, begs, or does anything else pushy, make him leave the room. Teach him a Place command and work on him staying on place for up to an hour, even when you walk into the other room for a minute. Practice crate manners. Work on teaching a structured Heel. Forget about getting places during a walk for a while right now, instead go somewhere open, like your front yard, a park, or culdesac and practice a heel where his nose does not go past your leg. You need to hire a trainer to help you with the aggression and you need someone who uses a lot of boundaries, positive reinforcement and fair discipline tactfully. Look for someone who is very experienced with aggression and different types of aggression - many trainers are only experienced with fear based aggression and you likely have some dominance- based or territorial aggression going on too, and they are treated a bit differently than fear. Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Crate manners: https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-the-crate/ Thresholds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-w28C2g68M Heel article - The turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Heel Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTiKVc4ZZWo Introduce a basket muzzle while working through all this to keep buddy safe. To introduce the muzzle, first place it on the ground and sprinkle his meal kibble around it. Do this until he is comfortable eating around it. Next, when he is comfortable with it being on the floor with food, hold it up and reward him with a piece of kibble every time he touches or sniffs it in your hand. Feed him his whole meal this way. Practice this until he is comfortable touching it. Next, hold a treat inside of it through the muzzle's holes, so that he has to poke his face into it to get the treat. As he gets comfortable doing that, gradually hold the treat further down into the muzzle, so that he has to poke his face all the way into the muzzle to get the treat. Practice until he is comfortable having his face in it. Next, feed several treats in a row through the muzzle's holes while he holds his face in the muzzle for longer. Practice this until he can hold his face in it for at least ten seconds while being fed treats. Next, when he can hold his face in the muzzle for ten seconds while remaining calm, while his face is in the muzzle move the muzzle's buckles together briefly, then feed him a treat through the muzzle. Practice this until he is not bothered by the buckles moving back and forth. Next, while he is wearing the muzzle buckle it and unbuckle it briefly, then feed a treat. As he gets comfortable with this step, gradually keep the muzzle buckled for longer and longer while feeding treats through the muzzle occasionally. Next, gradually increase how long he wears the muzzle for and decrease how often you give him a treat, until he can calmly wear the muzzle for at least an hour without receiving treats more than two treats during that hour. Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If he obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your pup growls at your dog, make him leave the room while also disciplining the other dog for antagonizing if needed (not an issue now it sounds like). Be vigilant. You want both dogs to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to him. I would have pup wear a basket muzzle while practicing this to avoid injury to Buddy, give you the ability to enforce the training the way it needs to be - so he can't use his mouth to get what he wants, and to prevent pup from possibly redirecting his aggression toward you or protesting the new rules by biting you. Crate train pup, and give pup a food stuffed hollow chew toy like a Kong in the crate, and have pup spend time in the crate when you cannot supervise, and on Place for longer periods of time to learn better impulse control and calmness. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Heather, Crate train puppy and purchase and exercise pen and keep pup away from your Golden when you cannot supervise them together. Fill hollow chew toys with dog food and a little peanut butter, soft cheese, of liver paste (avoid Xylitol sweetener in some Peanut butter - it's toxic!). You can make the food last longer by placing pups food in a bowl, cover food with water, let it sit out until food turns to mush, mix a little peanut butter, soft cheese, or liver paste into it, then loosely stuff toy and freeze overnight. You can make several ahead of time and grab from freezer as needed - pup can eat all of her meals this way to keep her busier. Follow the Surprise method and the Crate manners protocol to help teach calmness in the crate. Crying for a few days is normal though - stay strong and don't let her out while she is crying unless she truly needs to go potty. She needs the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self- entertain with the chew toy in the crate or pen. Surprise method for crate training: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate manners to help teach calmness and self-control: https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-the-crate/ Next, teach pup the Out and Leave It commands and also follow the section in the Out article on how to use out to deal with pushiness once you have already taught the meaning of the command. Use that advice when pup is pestering your Golden and not obeying Out. Out (which means leave the area): https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave it method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite To help with pup's energy have multiple short obedience sessions where you are teaching something new, something that requires a lot of self-control for her, or something that requires a lot of thinking in general. Mental exercise can actually wear puppies out even more than physical exercise - especially for more intelligent, driven breeds like Shepherds. Give the food stuffed hollow chew toys for her to work for meals also - this gives her a "job" to do and teaches her to chew the right things and settle down. Some good commands that require a lot of self-control are: Down Stay Heel-You can teach this in your own backyard or even in the house sometimes: Turns method for heeling: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Thresholds - you can practice with outside doors especially, as a good safety no-door-bolting protocol, BUT attach a long leash to her and the other end of it to something secure inside your home just in case she gets past you through the door during practice. Add distractions like neighbors or kids outside as she improves to make it harder and increase her skill level: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-w28C2g68M Any basic obedience: Sit, Come, Stay, Down, Stand - taught, then practiced all together in quick repetition, for longer periods of time, with distractions, or from a distance as she improves more. New tricks like bringing things to you Finally, be an advocate for your older dog. Make and enforce household rules for all the dogs so they don't have to enforce the rules themselves. Things like no stealing food, bothering while sleeping, shoving out of the way, acting aggressive toward, continuing when one wants to stop, resource guarding people or things, keeping another from getting into or through a space, ect...When one dog (mostly pup probably) breaks a rule, you enforce the rules by making the rule breaker leave, using the Out command, returning a stolen toy to who had it first, making pup leave the room while your other dog eats or sleeps, ect.. If food stealing is an issue, feed both dogs in separate locked crates to remove the tension around food and to help them focus on eating and not guarding food or feeling too worried to eat. It is OKAY for pup to learn to stay on Place for an hour with a chew toy and simply leave your older dog alone - in fact that is a useful skill later in life. This will take some time to teach though so be patient - BUT just practicing it should help wear pup out if it's a bit challenging. As long as you are giving pup the mental stimulation she needs at other times, puppy can spend time learning how to chew quietly on a chew toy and develop an "off" switch through practices like Place. Most puppies have to be an off switch taught while young - they don't naturally know how. As soon as she is well, I suggest finding a puppy play group or kindergarten class that has time for off leash puppy play that is moderated to prevent bullying and pups feeling overwhelmed (with breaks as needed essentially) to help her learn bite inhibition and social skills with other dogs - puppy play is by far the best and safest way to do this around other dogs. Don't wait to join a class, go as soon as pup is able because bite inhibition is age dependent. Once she is well, focus most of your energy also on taking her places and making interactions with other people fun but calm as well. You will have lost some time with socialization and need to do a lot of catch up fast, so that will be your main focus for a while when you get to that point with her health. As a more reserved breed socialization with others will be super important even though she is probably still at the age where she does fine - work on it when you are able to again so she stays fine and doesn't develop issues later. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Soekie, I suggest crate training, tethering, teaching Out, and teaching Place commands. Out means leave the area is a great command to use to teach a pup to stay out of another dog's space. Place is great for teaching calmness while they are together and you can give a food stuffed Kong while on the place also to keep pup entertained. Crate Training and tethering pup to yourself with a 6 foot leash are super important during times when you cannot actively supervise the dogs together and be teaching pup. Out command-read entire article for how to teach and also how to use in different situations: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Place - expect place to take pup time to learn. Start teaching pup now and gradually increase how long he can stay there with lots of practice - great command for adult dogs later too: https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-place-command-the-good-dog-training-tips/ Crate Training - Surprise method: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate manners - if needed: https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-the-crate/ Google various ways to stuff Kongs to make them interesting. You can even make frozen ones ahead of time using pup's food, some water, and a little liver paste, cheese, or peanut butter (NO xylitol - it's toxic). If you freeze just put a straw through the kong while it is freezing, then remove straw before giving to pup - to prevent a suction action. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Maria, I suggest crate training the younger dog, teaching Place, Leave It, and Out - which means leave the area. Also, be sure to give the younger dog physical and mental exercise - especially mental. Mental exercise can look like daily walks where its a very structured, focused heel, with Sit and Down stays practiced intermittently - so that pup is having to think a lot mentally. Incorporating obedience commands into a fetch. Practicing training daily. Out command (always be careful when enforcing Out or any directional command. Get professional help if pup shows any signs of aggression. Interrupt unwanted behavior early, before pup is so aroused it's harder for them to respond): https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Heel article - The turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Decide what your house rules are for all the dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. Things like: no aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no keeping another dog away from an area or person, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are not working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If he obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog, or keep a drag leash on him so that you can easily lead him while you are home to supervise (keep him crated when not supervising right now). If there are any signs of aggression, don't do this on your own, hire a trainer to work with you on that also. You don't want to risk a bite. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of the dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and the dogs to learn respect for each other because you have taught it to them and not because they have had to use aggression, roughness, bullying, or hiding all the time. The dogs don't have to play together for the younger dog to be happy. Work on calm co-existence between them, and only allow play if the older dog initiates it and pup is being respectful. Use commands like Place, Out, and Leave It to enforce calmness at home. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Olivia, First, always be careful when dealing with aggression. Many dogs will redirect their aggression to whoever is closest while in a tense state or fighting. I would recommend desensitizing both dogs to wearing a basket muzzle while you are home to supervise, and having them wear those to keep not only the dogs safe, both the people training and living with them. Muzzle introduction video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJTucFnmAbw&list=PLXtcKXk-QWojGYcl1NCg5UA5geEnmpx4a&index=6&t=0s With both dogs wearing muzzles for your safety, work on the following training - I do suggest hiring a professional trainer who specializes in aggression to work with you on all of this, and again, always be careful when dealing with any aggression - there is always the risk of you being bitten. Crate train both dogs using the crate manners and Surprise methods from the article and video linked below. Feed both dogs in separate locked crates at meal times. Crate manners: https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-the-crate/ Surprise method: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Second, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed - including if pup is hovering around water bowl to guard. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your other dog when he is trying to leave, tell pup Out. If he obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your other dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your other dog. If you’re your older dog growls at pup, make him leave the room while also disciplining pup if needed. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for them to learn respect for each other because you have taught it to them and not because they have used aggression. Teach both dogs the Place command and work up to having them both stay on their separate Place beds calmly for 1-2 hours. This is a great calming, self-control building, and tolerance exercise. It also helps get them both in a working, more respectful mindset while in the same room as each other. Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Finally, work on manners and building respect and trust for you with both dogs. Thresholds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-w28C2g68M Heel article - The turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Working method and Consistency method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-doberman-to-listen-to-you Just to emphasize again, have pup's wear muzzles while doing any of the above, and in general. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Shona, I generally recommend not allowing older dogs to correct puppies when things are tense. If you step in and manage pup instead, that takes pressure off the older dogs - which can help them like and adjust to her more easily, and your corrections still help her learn what's acceptable and not. Start by rewarding older dogs when she enters the room, they are tolerant of her, and friendly - try to remove without puppy seeing so she doesn't rush over to get a treat too. Correct older dogs for things you find unacceptable, manage puppy so she doesn't pester them too much by being rude, stealing toys, waking them up, ect... Some older dogs do a good job of teaching puppies how to behave but a lot don't so I generally recommend you make the rules and enforce them for all the dogs, instead of letting them work it out on their own. With everyone looking to you for direction, things should go more smoothly. The rules that dog's may make are not always rules you will be okay with. A crate, exercise pen, and attaching pup to yourself with a 6 foot leash are good tools for managing puppy when you are not actively mediating things between the dogs. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Za'Ria, Kahlua is hitting the age that's an equivalent of a puppy teenager right now - this is a common age for puppies to push boundaries, wander off, listen less, experiment with dominance, and play rough. As a herding breed she is also probably experiencing more of those instincts emerging (the shoving and nipping are herding behaviors in Aussie's - which you likely know). It's her way of trying to control the younger pup. I suggest teaching both dogs Out (which means leave the area) and Place - which is similar to Stay but on a certain spot and they can sit, stand, or lie down but can't get off the spot. Practicing Place with both dogs in the same room on separate place beds can help facilitate calmness around each other and respect for you - especially for the older pup. Out is great for giving direction and giving a consequence of leaving the room when there is pushiness too. It's also good for increasing impulse control - which is an important skill for your older pup to practice right now. Out command - read the entire article, including the section for using Out to deal with pushy behavior: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo I also suggest crate training both dogs so that they can have a calm place to chew on a chew toy away from each other when things are tense, or one dog is pestering the other, or you are not home to supervise while they are still getting to know each other. Crate training is an important potty training and safety measure for a young pup also. An open crate while you are home can also serve as an additional Place to practice, and feeding both dogs in separate locked crates can prevent food resource guarding and remove stress around mealtimes. You may already be doing this but if not I suggest adding it. The crate manners protocol is good even for already crate trained dogs - to work on impulse control, respect and calmness skills. Crate Manners - great calmness and gentle respect building exercise : https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-the-crate/ Surprise method - for introducing crate for first time: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Reel In method for teaching Come: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-whippet-to-recall Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem, you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves - meaning your older pup isn't controlling as much. For example, if pup comes over to your other dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If he obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your other dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your other dog. If your older dog pushes pup or gets between you and pup uninvited, tell your older dog Out and enforce her leaving. When she is waiting for her turn patiently, then send Whiskey to place and invite Kahlua over - no demanding of attention right now from either dog - especially Kahlua. Make them wait or do a command first to work for your attention if pushiness is an issue, and make them leave if being pushy or aggressive. If your older dog growls at pup, make Kahlua leave the room while also carefully disciplining Whiskey if pup antagonized her first. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for them to learn respect for each other because you have taught it to them and not because they have used aggression. Moderate the play. Use commands like Out, Place, and Leave It to enforce when it's time to play and when it's not. Your younger pup doesn't need to stick up for himself - you be the one to make and enforce your house rules and teach dogs to abide by them. Keep a drag leash on both dogs, or at least Kahlua while in the house while you can supervise. Calmly go over to pup, step on the leash and pick up the end of it and direct Kahlua where she needs to go if you gave a command like Place or Out and she is ignoring you. Having the ability to back up what you say is huge here - she needs to learn that when you give a command you will back it up - so that your commands have meaning to her and she will learn to respond to them better as time goes on. Consistency and Working methods -as needed: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-doberman-to-listen-to-you Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Johanna, If the dogs were inside dogs or you were outside with them more, then the solution would be a high level of training and managing on your end to establish rules and you enforce them between the dogs - the dogs way of treating each other would be based on respect for you and not just for each other, so that no dog is deciding what another dog can and can't do - that's your job. With the dogs being outside dogs and not with you most of the time you are looking at simply managing opposed to truly training. I suggest separating the dogs. Dividing the yard with a shelter in each section of the yard for all the dogs and preventing Cleo from being able to get to Jesse and bully her - not just around the shelter but in general. Best of luck, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Deborah, Unfortunately, I highly disagree with your vet's advice in this case. First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Once she is crate trained then life with both dogs can be a lot easier for everyone. Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog acts aggressive toward your pup (which is not as likely if you are defending your older dog from her), make her leave the room while also disciplining pup for antagonizing her if needed. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want her to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or she has to hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give Nova a treat while Lily is not looking. Whenever she is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give her a treat. Try not to let puppy see you rewarding her though so that Lily doesn’t run over and overwhelm her. Right now Nova probably feels overwhelmed by Lily and because of the age and personality difference. She needs to feel like you are the one managing Lily, protecting Nova from her pestering her, and making her appearance pleasant for Nova. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer, then Nova may adjust to her presence as she grows, especially when she calms down when older and through boundaries you have taught Lily. Don’t expect them to be best friends. The goal right now is calm, peaceful coexistence. They may end up bonding and enjoy each others company as adults later but they don’t have to play or be thrilled right now. My own older dog was very tolerant of our youngest dog for the first year and did well, but they were not buddies until she became an adult and calmed down. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Terri, At this stage definitely always supervise the dogs when they are together. Confine pup to the crate or an exercise pen when you can't supervise. With two dogs, its always a good idea to give both a lot of structures, decide some boundaries for both dogs, and you be the one to enforce the rules. Some examples of rules you can put into place for the dogs can include, but are not limited to: No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If he obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make Stella leave the room while also disciplining puppy if pup broke one of your rules, like antagonizing Stella, also. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want her to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to him and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or avoid him. Some good commands to work on with both dogs to help with boundaries and calmness include: Out command - this is the command I would work the most on with puppy right now: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Leave It: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Thresholds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-w28C2g68M Heel article - The turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Place, Out, and Leave It are especially great commands for multi-dog households! Out is probably the number one command I use managing multiple dogs and the command I would suggest using to help pup learn to give your other dog space. Read the entire article "Out" article I linked above and pay special attention to the sections on How to teach Out and How to Use Out to Deal with Pushy Behavior. You will find yourself having to enforce out a LOT at first - stay consistent and pup should gradually start learning to listen without you having to walk over there to physically show him each time. Reward your older dog with a treat (when puppy isn't watching) whenever she is tolerant and calm around the new puppy. Also, reward your older dog when puppy simply enters the room at first - to associate pup's appearance with good things for your older dog. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Adam, First, don't let the dogs work it out for themselves. Second, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Once she is crate trained then life with both dogs can be a lot easier for everyone. Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues (probably always puppy) leave the area as needed. Follow the How to Use Out to Deal with Pushy Behavior section of the article to enforce the Out command once you have taught the command to pup. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make him leave the room or tell him Ah Ah if needed while also disciplining pup for antagonizing him if needed (essentially teach both that you will handle the issue for them). Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want him to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or he has to hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dog a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever he is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give him a treat. Try not to let pup see you rewarding him though so that she doesn’t run over and overwhelm him. Right now Toni probably feels overwhelmed by pup and because of his age it’s harder for him to handle her and keep up with her energy. He needs to feel like you are the one managing her, protecting him from her pestering him, and making her appearance pleasant for him. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer, then he may adjust to her presence as she grows, especially when she calms down when older. Don’t expect them to be best friends. The goal right now is calm, peaceful coexistence. They may end up bonding and enjoy each others company as adults later but they don’t have to play or be thrilled right now. My own older dog, although very tolerant of our youngest dog, was not buddies with her until she became an adult and calmed down. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Emily, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. If you don't follow any of the other advice I give, this is the most important part to receive. Crate training pup and crating pup when you can't supervise the dogs together could end up meaning the difference between the dogs doing well together and having to re-home puppy. Crating also helps prevent separation anxiety in the long run by teaching independence. It can help prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits from becoming long-term, can help pup adapt to boarding, needing to be confined during injuries later, and traveling later in life. A crate trained dog is often able to have more freedom later in life because bad and dangerous habits were prevented during early potty training, destructive phases. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help him learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Once pup is crate trained then life with both dogs can be a lot easier for everyone. Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If puppy obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make your older dog leave the room while also disciplining pup gently for antagonizing if needed. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want him to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to him and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or he has to hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after him while you are home, you can also clip him to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that he has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dog a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever your older dog is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give your older dog a treat. Try not to let puppy see you rewarding him though so that he doesn’t run over and overwhelm your older dog. Right now your older dog probably feels overwhelmed by pup and because of his age it’s harder for him to handle him and keep up with his energy. Your older dog needs to feel like you are the one managing puppy, protecting your older dog from him pestering him, and making his appearance pleasant for your older dog. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer, then your older may adjust to puppy's presence as he grows, especially when he calms down when older. Don’t expect them to be best friends and force them together. The goal right now is calm, peaceful coexistence. They may end up bonding and enjoy each others company as adults later! But they don’t have to play or be thrilled right now. I find that about half of all older dogs find new puppies stressful at first. Many do adjust as puppy matures though and may even become buddies later - you have to add structure and boundaries to help their relationship be calmer and not force interactions though. My own older dog was very tolerant of and did well with our younger dog as a puppy for the first year, but they mostly just co-existed calmly and he avoided her touching him. It wasn't until she became an adult and calmed down that they really became friends and liked playing together. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Ashley, I would hire a professional trainer who specializes in aggression and behavior issues to help you with this case in person. You really could use someone who can see the dogs together, tailor a training plan, and demonstrate things. This first comes down to your leadership among the dogs. Both dogs need to trust and respect you enough that they will let you handle situations between them. Both need some boundaries. I would teach dog dogs Out, Leave It, and Place, but especially your adult dog. I would be careful how you manage the toys - perhaps only leaving a small handful out at a time to keep track of so that there is less to guard. Finally, I would correct resource guarding by making your older dog leave the room each time, and reward older pup with a treat or better toy whenever they are calm and tolerant around puppy - especially around objects, so that ultimately pup learns what is acceptable and not acceptable, and begins to associate pup being near their toys with something pleasant like treats. I would do all of the above with the help of a qualified trainer who has experience in this area, to ensure everyone stays safe during the transition. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Amy, First, I suggest enrolling pup in a puppy kindergarten class that has time for moderated off leash play. Puppies play differently than adults and typically pups learn to control the pressure of their bites best by playing with other puppies, who will tell and stop playing if a pup gets too rough, teaching each other to be gentle. The play should always be moderated by a knowledgeable trainer who can tell when pups need a break too. Second, check out the article linked below and the Leave It method. Work pup learning to respond to leave it when excited. https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Third, teach pup the Out command and gently enforce it by walking pup out of the room when they get especially rough and wound up. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Finally, crate train pup and crate pup with a dog food stuffed chew toy when they are having a really hard calming down. Young puppies can get really wound up when tired and need frequent breaks to rest and settle back down - it's a bit like an overtired toddler having more tantrums. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Christina, When out the article linked below on teaching Out - and specifically the section on how to use out to deal with pushy behavior. You may already be doing that part, but it not work on that also. Out: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Work on teaching pup a Place command and work on to pup being able to stay on Place during times of high excitement - like when people first get home or guests are over; Place command: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Work on teaching Down-Stay and leave it also: Down-Stay: https://www.thelabradorsite.com/train-your-labrador-to-lie-down-and-stay/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Once pup knows those commands, use those commands to tell her what to do and where to be. Enforce those commands consistently yourself. If pup is disobeying a command, use a leash or your body language (the way Out describes) to redirect her to what she should be doing instead, with a calm and confident attitude yourself. Reward her for chewing on her own chew toys on Place, lying down quietly, and generally giving space to the other dogs. If pup is still obsessing over the dogs, you may need an interrupter if the behavior is obsessive. For this, instruct her what to do - like Out or Place or Leave It, then if she disobeys - having clearly understood your command, spray a small puff of air from a pet convincer at her side while calmly telling her "Ah Ah", then repeat your command and reward when she obeys it that time. Do not use citronella and do not spray in the face. Watch for any signs of aggression and do not correct without the help of a trainer and additional safety measures if she may react aggressively. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Teegan, First, if you can find a class or friends with similar age puppies (or just a bit younger like 3-6 months) I highly suggest creating time for off-leash play with other puppies. Puppies will play differently with each other and give the needed feedback during play to help each other learn to control their bites and give breaks. Puppies play differently than adult dogs usually. During play, moderate the play. When pup isn't listening to adult cues to give breaks, isn't taking turns chasing or being on top vs. running and being on bottom, then interrupt play, have pup practice a couple commands for treats until they are calmer, then see if the adult is still interesting in playing. If so, release the pup and let play resume with your "Go Play!" type cue. Be the one to help pup learn when to calm back down. When pup is playing with other puppies, the puppies should give feedback they are too rough by crying and stopping playing when a bite is too hard, but also moderate the play to help pups calm back down when one pup is getting overwhelmed due to a stronger personality or energy of another. Check out the article linked below on puppy play: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/puppy-classes-when-to-start/ Teach puppy the Out and Leave It commands also and work on general self-control with pup, so that pup can learn when to calm themselves down as needed too. You can also use those commands to help pup know when it's time to play and when they should leave the adults alone. Out - which means leave the area https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Thank you for the question and cute photo. I would be careful with the older dog and the puppy roughhousing; there is a chance of injury. Kalai is gaining confidence and strength and may not intentionally hurt the older dog but it is a recipe for injury. I do agree that the pup may be trying to exert himself in a dominant way and if your shepherd were younger, that would not be a problem. But due to the possibility of injury, I think they should play supervised. Remember that any young dog, and especially one with Husky lineage, requires a lot of exercise in the form of hour-long walks daily (if this cannot happen every day, play lengthy games of fetch in the backyard after work). Tiring the pup out will allow the shepherd some rest when needed. Provide Kalai with sturdy interactive toys for playing and mentally stimulating toys, too when you are not at home. Good luck!

Hello, I suggest working on some commands that build impulse control, and crate training pup and tethering pup to yourself with a leash while pup is in the process of learning to be calmer around the other dogs. Work on teaching pup the following commands: Out - which means leave the area (this one will be used a LOT so practice this one often and consistently). Be sure to read the whole article and pay special attention to the sections on how to teach Out and how to use Out to deal with pushy behavior. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method - while teaching this never give pup the thing she is supposed to be leaving, instead reward with a separate treat or toy (you want pup to learn to leave the other dogs alone and not just wait until bothering them): https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Place - work up to a 1-2 hour place command around distractions, so that this can be a staple command in your home for pup to be able to hang out with the family calmly while chewing on a bone but not bother the other dogs when things are overly exciting and everyone needs a break. It's also a great command in general and for when guests visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Reward all the dogs calmly when you catch them being tolerant and calm around each other. Try to keep the rewards calm and to not let the other dogs see you rewarding one dog so that they don't rush over. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Paulina, Teach both dogs a Down-Stay, Out, and Leave It command. Keep the dogs separate when you aren't supervising. When you are supervising, spend time walking the dogs together and practicing obedience commands outside with them, encourage hanging out in a calm way, and utilize Out, Leave It, and Down-Stay while they are around each other to give each other space. Down-Stay; https://www.thelabradorsite.com/train-your-labrador-to-lie-down-and-stay/ Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Reward them for ignoring each other, calmness, and obedience while they are together. Reward the older dog for staying calm and tolerant while pup is around especially, and reward pup for leaving the older dog alone and being calm especially. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Sydney, For the initial introduction, find an area where a lot of other dogs haven't been - like a fenced in yard or field (due to pup's vaccine status at this age). Practice the Walking Together or Passing Approach method from the article linked below with both dogs. https://wagwalking.com/training/greet-other-dogs I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate crate puppy at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach all dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for all dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make your older dog leave the room while also disciplining pup if needed. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dogs because you have taught it to her and not because your older dogs have had to resort to aggression or hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dogs when you aren't ready to moderate. Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dogs a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever they are calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give them a treat. Try not to let puppy see you rewarding them though so that she doesn’t run over and overwhelm them. It's okay if they aren't all best friends right now, as long as they can co-exist peacefully. Facilitate, calm, respectful co-existence and they may become buddies as pup calms down and matures. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello, First, I wouldn't allow your older dog to correct pup at all - since they lack impulse control and can't do it in a beneficial way. Second, I highly suggest hiring a professional trainer who specializes in behavior issues and aggression to work with you in person. Ask a lot of questions and check references and reviews. Find someone who is experienced in aggression - since many trainers don't focus on that area so don't have the experience you need. When an adult dog is drawing blood during an encounter, that is an aggression issue not just dogs being dogs. Hire a trainer, but until then I suggest teaching both dogs Out (which means leave the area) and Place - which is similar to Stay but on a certain spot and they can sit, stand, or lie down but can't get off the spot. Practicing Place with both dogs in the same room on separate place beds can help facilitate calmness around each other and respect for you. Out is great for giving direction and giving a consequence of leaving the room when there is pushiness or tension. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo I also suggest crate training both dogs so that they can have a calm place to chew on a chew toy away from each other when things are tense, or one dog is pestering the other, or you are not home to supervise while they are still getting to know each other. Crate training is an important potty training and safety measure for a young pup also. An open crate while you are home can also serve as an additional Place to practice, and feeding both dogs in separate locked crates can prevent food resource guarding and remove stress around mealtimes! Crate Manners - great calmness and gentle respect building exercise : https://thegooddog.net/training-videos/free-how-to-training-videos/learn-to-train-the-good-dog-way-the-crate/ Surprise method - for introducing crate for first time: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem, you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your other dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If he obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your other dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your other dog. If your older dog pushes pup or gets between you and pup uninvited, tell your older dog Out and enforce him leaving. When he is waiting for his turn patiently, then send pup to place and invite Walter over - no demanding of attention right now from either dog. Make them wait or do a command first to work for your attention, and make them leave if being pushy or aggressive. If your older dog growls at pup, make your older dog leave the room while also carefully disciplining pup if pup antagonized him. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for them to learn respect for each other because you have taught it to them and not because they have used aggression. When pup first enters the room, give your older dog a treat without pup seeing so pup is associated with good things for your older dog - treats stop when pup leaves. When your older dog is being calm, tolerant, and friendly without acting dominant and pushy toward pup, you can also calmly give a treat. Keep the energy calm when interacting with the dogs. Don't feel sorry for either dog but give clear boundaries instead. Don't expect them to be best friends right now - the goal is calm co-existence. When puppy matures and they have learned good manners around each other, they may decide to be friends as adults, but calmness, tolerance, and co-existence comes first. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Andrew, I suggest teaching both dogs a few commands to help manage their interactions, like Place, Out - which means leave the area, and Leave It. Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I would limit rough housing right now. If you do allow it, it should always be monitored and the dog's distracted and given a break when they start to get too excited and aroused, or one seems a bit overwhelmed. Don't expect your older dog to correct pup - due to their specific temperament they likely never will, and so long as you handle that well, that is fine. You need to step in and be the one teaching pup manners, so that pup will learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it him and not because your older dog has to correct or hide. As soon as it's safe to do so covid-wise, I also suggest enrolling pup in a puppy class that has time for moderated off-leash play with other puppies. Puppies primarily learn good social interactions from playing with other puppies - not adult dogs. It's also where they learn how to control the pressure of their bites. The play should be moderated as well, with humans stepping in to give pup's a break when things are getting too exciting, frustrating, or overwhelming for pups. Another option is to set up your own puppy class with a couple of friends who have puppies under 6 months of age, and meet in someone's fenced backyard. What to look for in a puppy class - no class will be ideal but below is what to look for in general. some places like Petco also offer free puppy play dates without the additional time for obedience training included. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/puppy-classes-when-to-start/ In general, it will probably be important for pup to have a bit more structure and leadership than what your other dog has required, to ensure a peaceful household with the dogs. Bellow are some good ways to facilitate that starting at this young age. First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help him learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If puppy obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want her to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to him and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or she has to hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after him while you are home, you can also clip him to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that he has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dog a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever she is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give her a treat. Try not to let puppy see you rewarding her though so that he doesn’t run over and overwhelm her. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Murial, You definitely need to hire a professional trainer who specializes in aggression and behavior issues to come and evaluate the dogs in person as soon as possible. I would also speak with your vet and see if something medical could be going on as well. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello, I am glad that you are looking for guidance as this cannot go on - not only is it not fair that peaceful Duke has to endure possible pain and simple annoyance from Scout, it's a risk. You have to be in charge and make sure that this stops now. Scout will only get bigger and stronger and the risk of injury to Duke increases. I think you have to seek the guidance of a trainer in your area. Scout is old enough to learn her commands and become obedient. Once she has some training, you can have better control over her. Scout is a breed that needs lots of mental stimulation. How about getting her some treat toys to provide her with mental exercise? It is good that you are home all day because you have to watch her to ensure she does not cause a problem. Train her a lot - try The Turns Method for a mental workout when on walks: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Until you start the dog training, work on these methods and good luck! https://wagwalking.com/training/obedience-train-a-german-shepherd-puppy

Hello, I think that training your smart Goldendoodle is going to be key to resolving the issue. Basic commands go a long way. If you have already taken her to obedience, give her a brush up on the commands or even attend the next level. The gentle Lab should not have to accept the treatment and Lucy should not be allowed to give it out. Take a look here to reinforce the recall so Lucy will come when asked and leave the Lab to rest: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-whippet-to-recall. As well, this is helpful for listening skills: which I think will go a long way in this situation: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-doberman-to-listen-to-you. Lastly, can you bring along a toy - like an interactive feeder that you can give to Lucy when she needs a diversion? And: https://wagwalking.com/training/not-play-aggressively. Good luck!

Hello, I like this guide, which has great suggestions, like making sure that the older dog's routine is not changed and they are given top dog spot over the newbie. Take a look, it may ease the older dog into the situation better, making the connection eventually happen. I would take them on lots of walks together. It is a good way for them to get to know each other on neutral ground. Read the entire page for helpful tips. https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog Good luck!

Hello, it seems as though your Schnauzer is adjusting pretty well and will accept the new puppy, but I would take a look here for guidance as well: https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog. It's important that your Schnauzer still maintain his routine so that he does not resent the new pup. Keep up with his regular walks and attention. Also, the puppy needs to respect the older dogs. These things are explained well in the guide I have linked. Good luck!

Pretty dogs! Please take a look at the topnotch Methods here for having a new dog in the home. https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog Respect the Resident - remember that the older dog should not have changes in the routine, and should have respect from the puppy. The What Not to Do Method explains that it will not be smooth sailing. I think that you should feed them separately and the puppy should not be allowed to go after the older dog's food (and vice versa).I think that you will need to be watching the puppy and the older dog at all times until they are more used to each other so that a situation like what occurred with your son does not happen again. It could have been worse. Please enroll both of the dogs in obedience classes. If that is not possible, consider having a trainer come to the home to get everyone (people in agreement and dogs on good terms) in order. Good luck!

Hello, you have the right idea already. I would have suggested the same things - the outdoor play, the confidence building, distracting her from Stella etc. What about obedience training classes? They are not expensive and accomplish so much. She learns a lot, spends one on one time with you, building a bond, gains confidence, and gets socialized. That would be my suggestion. Teaching Tilly commands gives her a feeling of doing things right is good, too- the Turns Method here is great: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel. Good luck!

Hello Sarah, As far as energy goes, check out Zach George on Youtube. He has dozens of obedience and trick how to videos. I suggest spending the time you would on walk on 20-30 minute training sessions with Gus, where he has to concentrate a good bit to learn something new or a more difficult version of a current command. Choose commands and tricks he can perform with his back. Mental exercise can be as calming as physical exercise for many dogs. Feeding him part of his meals as puzzle toys and dog food stuffed hollow chew toys or things like Kong wobbles can also give him something fun to do. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsxaO44D46I Check out the commands liked below. Work on teaching pup Leave It, Out, and Place and working on his self-control, independence, and calmness through commands like though. Have pup work up to an hour long Place command gradually. Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Andrew, It sounds like a combination of Gracey wanting to play and getting too aroused and rough. First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Instead of letting him out of the crate when he cries, use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help him learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for all the dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. Things like: no aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no keeping another dog away from an area or person, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if Gracey comes over to your puppy when he is trying to sleep, tell Gracey Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until Gracey leaves the area and stops trying to go back to puppy. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of the dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and the dogs to learn respect for each other because you have taught it to them and not because they have had to use aggression, roughness, hiding, or bullying. Teach puppy and older dog Place - especially your older dog, and have them practice just staying on place when things need to be calmer. If either dog gets too wound up, send them to their crate, exercise pen, or place to calm down with a food stuffed chew toy. Always moderate their play at this stage and interrupt the play and let everyone calm down when things start to get overwhelming for either dog, one starts to bully or act scared, or they are getting highly aroused - When during play wrestling, play growls, and running can be normal, but watch for the energy going up and up and the dogs getting rougher in their play - give breaks when the energy starts to climb and get less gentle. You can practice Jazz Up Settle down at other times to work on impulse control....Get one of the dogs (like Gracey mostly) excited when they are by themselves, then freeze and give a command, then stay frozen and wait for pup to obey. As soon as pup calms down enough to obey, give a treat, tell them Okay and "Go Play', then resume playing again....Practice this with less excitement at first and work up to more excitement before giving the command as they improve and can get themselves under control right away...Expect it to take a few minutes for them to calm down enough to obey at first. At this age, encourage only calm interactions by giving commands like Down-Stay, Place, Out, and Leave It, and using the crate and exercise pen to keep them separate when you can't enforce rules. Reward Gracey for calmness and listening to you around the puppy. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Cheriese, Good play should look like both dogs taking turns being on top vs. bottom, taking turns chasing vs. being chased, giving breaks when one indicates they need one, and backing off and giving a break when there is a yip. At this age pup is still learning to control the pressure of their bite, but they should learn that when they bite too hard, the other dog will yip and stop playing, and that they should give the other dog a break and be more gentle the next time. If they don't respond that way, step in to give a break. I highly recommend joining a puppy play group because puppies tend to learn best how to control the pressure of their mouth from playing with other puppies. When moderating play, watch for one dog always being on top, always chasing, not giving the other a break when they are trying to pull away, and generally both getting super aroused and that arousal continuing to increase and increase. When you see those things, interrupt play by calling them apart and having them perform a couple commands for treats to calm them down (ideally both dogs going to separate people to work for their treats), then release the calmer of the two dogs who wanted the break first, to see if they re-initiate play. If they do, release the other dog with "Okay!" or "Go Play" and let them resume. If the other dog doesn't initiate play again, they are done for now. Give both a break. Mouthing is normal but there should never be blood drawn. Advocate for the older dog when pup wants to play but they just want to rest or be left alone. Work on commands like Leave It and Out, to enforce pup giving the older dog a break. Generally, let the older dog be the one to decide the most when it's time to play, if pup is usually the initiator of it. Leave It: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Out - which means leave the area - section on using out to deal with pushiness, and how to teach out especially: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello, I can see that Maxi could be stressed by the fact that the puppy is looking for milk. I think you should keep an eye on that because you don't want a bad relationship to form from the beginning. Please take a look at this guide and read it in its entirety. https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog. Pay special attention to Respect the Resident Method and the What NOT to Do Method. There are excellent tips for helping Maxi get used to the puppy. As well, the guide mentions behavior that the puppy should be taught as well. Let Maxi know that she is still number one and do not let the puppy mistreat Maxi (even unintentionally). Keep the puppy busy with teething toys (remember her teeth are sharp - another reason she needs to leave Maxi alone and not seek milk). Start teaching the puppy commands needed for good behavior. Happy training!

Hello, bringing a new dog into the life of a 12-year-old canine is quite a change. It's always important to remember that the senior dog is best given special treatment as they adjust. Often when this is the approach, things may go more smoothly. Don't allow Penny to seek out playtime at this point. Take her on long walks for exercise or take a trip to the dog park for play and to run off steam. She may be too exuberant for a 12-year-old dog who could have arthritis or just does not have the desire and energy to play. Make sure that the 12-year-old is getting just as much attention as before, if not even more. Please take a look at the guide here; all of the methods are good. The Respect the Resident Method and the What NOT to Do Method, in particular, are excellent. https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog. These tips may help your older dog to adjust. Good luck and enjoy your dogs!

Hello, I have a guide that will give you excellent advice. Please read the entire guide as you will find it very helpful. https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog. Remember to always treat your senior dog as number one because it is a big change to have a new pup in the house, especially a boisterous one. Ace cannot be allowed to bother the senior dog. Make sure that your older dog has a place to retreat to for quiet, where Ace cannot bother him. Take the two dogs on walks together - this may help them be more comfortable with each other on neutral ground. Ace is a breed that is very high energy, sometimes domineering, and requires a LOT of exercise. Walk him a couple of times per day, lengthy walks at a brisk pace. Make sure he has interactive toys and has plenty of play time in the form of fetch, chase, and time at the dog park with other dogs to socialize him. He can burn off steam there, too. And of course, obedience classes will be a must. Start looking now for a class that is aimed toward energetic dogs. Good luck and keep Ace busy so that he is too tired to bother your older dog. All the best!

Hello, first - the older dog deserves to have his peace and quiet. I would get a baby gate for the room the senior dog prefers, so that he can have the rest he needs. Take a look here, especially at the Respect the Resident Method and the Do's and Don'ts Method: https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog. Remember to try and make things as normal as they can be for the senior canine, which allows for better acceptance. As for the walking on leash, try one of these methods for helping a puppy along: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-an-australian-shepherd-to-walk-on-a-leash. Let Smokey wear his collar around the house, and attach the leash to it a few times a day, even letting him drag it around for a few minutes. Make sure the first leash you get for Smokey is a very light one (even a cat leash) so that it is not intimidating and heavy. Then bring treats along to lure Smokey on the walk. Check the guide I mentioned for more tips. All the best to your dogs!

Hello, this is an unfair situation for the older dog. I would keep them separated. The senior dog deserves to be left in peace in her old age. Shelby may injure her with sheer size and weight. I do not think you have any choice but to ensure that your Jack Russell has a gated off room with a comfy bed in which to be safe from injury and not afraid. As for Shelby, it is time for obedience class. This will allow Shelby physical and mental stimulation. Then, your dog will listen to you and learn commands that may allow the two dogs to be in close proximity again. But you cannot do that until Shelby knows commands like sit, stay, down, leave it (to leave the Jack Russell alone), come, etc. Huskies are extremely energetic and Shelby will need a few walks per day, and even a run. Make one of the walks very brisk and long, at the very least. Take Shelby to dog parks for socialization; this may help with the respect toward the older dog. To start basic commands before the obedience classes, start here: https://wagwalking.com/training/obedience-train-a-great-dane and https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-rottweiler-puppy-to-not-be-aggressive. Good luck!

Hello! There isn't too much advice I can give other than to just let them do it and stay close by. Whenever I have brought a foster dog home, I will put the dogs in my back yard and I will keep the hose handy just in case I need to break up any fighting. But because they have been IN the house with no issues, I am comfortable saying that they should be find outside. Dogs will often have issues indoors, and be great outside (if there is going to be an issue). So give it a try and keep an eye on things. If after a few minutes things seem fine, you can relax and let them have some fun!

Hello Maggie, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Once she is crate trained then life with both dogs can be a lot easier for everyone. Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. Since your older dog worries when you discipline pup, keep your tone very neutral and calm while enforcing the correction calmly with body language - like walking pup out of the area as described in the How to Use Out to Deal With Pushy Behavior section of the Out article. Consistency and calmness tends to work best anyway. To help pup learn self-control also practice regular obedience commands with her so that she respects you - she doesn't necessarily have to respect your older dog to be mannerly toward him - but she does have to respect you and understand what your household rules are for how she is allowed to interact them, then you enforce those rules. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want him to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or he has to hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give Rocky a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever he is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give him a treat. Try not to let Sidney see you rewarding him though so that she doesn’t run over and overwhelm him. Right now Rocky needs to feel like you are the one managing her, protecting him from her pestering him, and making her appearance pleasant for him. She needs to learn respect for you and what your rules are. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer. Because of her stronger personality, I suggest incorporating regular obedience and training practice into her schedule - the daily mental stimulation will build trust and respect for you, and help her learn self-control and calmness as she grows. Learning new commands and tricks or the next level of a current command can happen in the amount of time pup would go on a walk and actually decrease excess energy as much or more than an extra walk. Basic obedience commands like Sit, Down, Come, Stay, Stand, Place, Watch Me, Out, Quiet, Leave It, Off, and Heel are great things to gradually work on over the next year. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello! While dogs often sort out their issues on their own, some dogs are too submissive to young puppies and never sort out their behavioral stuff. So in the mean time, I am going to send you information on "leave it". Leave it is a great command for anything you want to teach your dog to leave alone or stop going after. Teaching “leave it” is not difficult. Begin the lessons inside your home or in an area with very few distractions. Here are the steps for teaching “leave it”: Make sure you have two different types of treats. One type can be fairly boring to the dog, but the other type should be a high-value treat that he finds pretty delicious. You will also want to make sure that the treats are broken up into pea-sized pieces so it won’t take him too long to eat them. Put one type of treat in each hand. If you like to train with a clicker as your marker, you can also hold a clicker in the same hand that holds the high-value treat. Then, place both of your hands behind your back. Make a fist with the hand that is holding the treat of lower value and present your fist to your dog, letting him sniff. Say “leave it” and wait until he finishes sniffing your fist. As soon as your dog is done sniffing, you can either click with the clicker or say “yes.” Then offer him the higher-value treat in your other hand. Repeat until your dog immediately stops sniffing your hand when you say “leave it.” When you say “leave it” and he stops sniffing right away, leash your dog and then toss a low-value treat outside of his reach. Wait until he stops sniffing and pulling toward the treat. As soon as he does, either say “yes” or click and then give him a high-value treat from your hand. Practice this exercise a number of times. Over time, by practicing “leave it,” your dog should stop pulling as soon as you give the cue. When rewarding him with a treat, make sure that it is something good, not plain old kibble. By doing so, you are teaching him that asking him to leave some food doesn’t mean he won’t get anything, but that in fact he might get something even more delicious. When your dog is reliably responding to the cue, you can teach him that “leave it” can apply to other things as well, not just food on the floor. Repeat the exercise with five different items that are fairly boring to your dog. After using five different “boring” items, start using slightly more exciting items. You know your dog, so you alone know what items he would consider more interesting, but don’t jump to high-value items right away. To increase his chances of success at learning the cue, you want to work up to high-value items gradually. If Kleenex or a piece of plastic, for instance, would attract your dog on a walk, don’t start with those. Choose the items based on your ultimate goal: Anytime you say “leave it,” you want to be confident that your dog will indeed leave whatever you are asking him to leave. . The reward he receives when he leaves an item can change as well. If your dog has a favorite toy, squeak it and play for a moment when he comes running to you after leaving the other item of interest. Most dogs love interacting with us, so a moment of praise or play with a toy can be just as effective as a treat. Keep it fun Even though you’re practicing “leave it” as a way to keep your dog safe, you want him to see it as a fun game you play. When your dog is proficient at the game in your home, start practicing in a variety of locations with more distractions

Hello Megan, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Once she is crate trained then life with both dogs can be a lot easier for everyone. Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Check out the section on Using Out to Deal with Pushy Behaviors to enforce pup leaving the older dog alone when they are being too pushy. Also, see if you can find a puppy kindergarten class or a free puppy play date class, and attend one of those with him so that he can learn how to control the pressure of his bite by playing with other puppies. Petco and some other pet stores with training offer free puppy play classes if you call and ask for the schedule. If you have any friends with puppies under 6 months of age, set up play dates with those puppies too. Moderate the dogs' or puppies' play and whenever one dog seems overwhelmed or they are all getting too excited, interrupt their play, let everyone calm down, then let the most timid pup go first to see if they still want to play - if they do, then you can let the other puppies go too when they are waiting for permission. Puppies and adult dogs play differently, so their are social skills pup can learn from playing with other puppies that they wouldn't learn from an adult dog. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello, If you have any friends with older puppies, whose play you can moderate, I would have supervised playdates where you can moderate their play, separate when they get too excited or one pup needs a break, practice a couple of obedience commands, let the more timid pup go first to see if they still want to play, and then let the other pups go too. Puppies learn bite inhibition best from each other before six months of age - don't want! They will often give each other feedback when something is too hard or stop the game, helping the other pups learn to adjust and be more gentle. You will need to help that process a lot by giving breaks if your pup or another is too rough too. With your own dogs, work on teaching your puppy the Leave It and Out commands, and use those commands to be the one to tell pup when they are being too rough with the older dog, and make pup take a break, calm down through some obedience practice with treats, then allow play to resume if your older dog wants it, once pup has calmed back down. Out - which means leave the area https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It - leave it method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s I suggest tethering pup to you with a hands free leash when you can't moderate their play and interactions, and using an exercise pen with dog food stuffed chew toys for the younger puppy to give your older dog a break at times too - puppies tend to need a calm down time when they get especially rough because they are actually overtired. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Sarah, First, I recommend spending thirty minutes a day having a training session for Murphy where you work on teaching the following commands in the coming weeks. These are good commands for building self-control, respect and trust for you, calmness, and give you a way to direct pup where he should and shouldn't be. Thresholds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-w28C2g68M Heel article - The turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Working and Consistency methods: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-doberman-to-listen-to-you Quiet - Quiet method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bark Out - which means leave the area https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It - leave it method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite When pup is being pushy, send them to Place or use the Out command. Enforce that command very calmly, confidently, but firmly - pup will be trying to get a reaction out of you because they probably find it fun. Calmly insist on follow- through, keeping a drag leash on pup while home if you find you need it to direct pup to Place or out of the room. Once pup is out of the area, or when pup needs to be crated, if they are barking in protest, calmly tell pup Quiet and briefly spray a small puff of air from an unscented air canister called a Pet convincer at pup's side. You may need to tether pup to something with a leash that's long enough to remain on place comfortable, without giving tension on the leash unless they leave place, when its time for pup to give space and they haven't learned a long place command quiet yet. Just as important as the boundaries and corrections is rewarding the right behavior. Have pup work for what they get in life by doing a command before you give them something - like Sit before petting, Down before a game of fetch, heel during walks, ect...When you catch pup doing something polite on their own, like lying on Place quietly, tolerating Monty getting petted without coming over, ect...Calmly place a treat between pup's front paws. Pup needs boundaries, better communication, and rewards for doing the right behavior to help them feel more secure, respect you more, and understand the rules of the family - but remember that pup is young and still learning. This age is essentially puppy teenage-hood so take comfort and compassion in that too. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Hollie, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make her leave the room while also disciplining pup if needed. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want her to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dog a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever she is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give her a treat. Try not to let puppy see you rewarding her though so that she doesn’t run over and overwhelm her. Right now your older dog probably feels overwhelmed by pup and because of her age it’s harder for her to handle her and keep up with her energy. She needs to feel like you are the one managing puppy, protecting your older dog from her pestering her, and making her appearance pleasant for your older dog. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer, then she may adjust to puppy's presence as she grows, especially when he calms down when older. Don’t expect them to be best friends. The goal right now is calm, peaceful coexistence. They may end up bonding and enjoy each others company as adults later, but they don’t have to play or be thrilled right now. I find that about half of all older dogs find new puppies stressful at first. Many do adjust as puppy matures though and may even become buddies - you have to add structure and boundaries to help their relationship be calmer and not force interactions though. I would also recommend enrolling puppy in a puppy kindergarten class that has time for moderated, off-leash play with other puppies to help pup learn how to control the pressure of their mouth (best learned during play with other puppies), and socialization. If you have friends with puppies you could also go to each other's fenced yard and set up play dates with them. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Melissa, First, I recommend teaching the dogs to "honor" each others retrievals - which is when one dog is taught to sit and watch and wait while the other retrieves a toy, until its there turn. This is something commonly taught to hunting dogs since they need to only retrieve their person's ducks and not someone else's from the hunting group. I would play fetch letting the dogs take turns instead of compete for the same ball - since both dogs will be highly aroused while chasing the ball down, and arousal makes dogs feel more aggressive. Practicing the waiting with the chasing turns can help both dogs learn better self-control. I recommend teaching both dogs Out and Leave It, and using those commands to enforce Arwin leaving your lab alone when it comes to the biting, and when your lab tries to go toward Arwin when they get the ball first. Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Pat, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. For the biting, I recommend teaching pup Out and Leave It. Out - which means leave the area. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Prentice, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Once she is crate trained, crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed (probably puppy most of the time). Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ You can also work on Leave It: Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want her to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or hide. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Finally, see if there is a good puppy class that has time for moderated off-leash play with other similar age puppies. Playing with other puppies is how puppies best learn doggie social cues - like giving each other breaks, and controlling the pressure of their mouths. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello. Here is information on nipping/biting. Nipping: Puppies may nip for a number of reasons. Nipping can be a means of energy release, getting attention, interacting and exploring their environment or it could be a habit that helps with teething. Whatever the cause, nipping can still be painful for the receiver, and it’s an action that pet parents want to curb. Some ways to stop biting before it becomes a real problem include: Using teething toys. Distracting with and redirecting your dog’s biting to safe and durable chew toys is one way to keep them from focusing their mouthy energies to an approved location and teach them what biting habits are acceptable. Making sure your dog is getting the proper amount of exercise. Exercise is huge. Different dogs have different exercise needs based on their breed and size, so check with your veterinarian to make sure that yours is getting the exercise they need. Dogs—and especially puppies—use their playtime to get out extra energy. With too much pent-up energy, your pup may resort to play biting. Having them expel their energy in positive ways - including both physical and mental exercise - will help mitigate extra nips. Being consistent. Training your dog takes patience, practice and consistency. With the right training techniques and commitment, your dog will learn what is preferred behavior. While sometimes it may be easier to let a little nipping activity go, be sure to remain consistent in your cues and redirection. That way, boundaries are clear to your dog. Using positive reinforcement. To establish preferred behaviors, use positive reinforcement when your dog exhibits the correct behavior. For instance, praise and treat your puppy when they listen to your cue to stop unwanted biting as well as when they choose an appropriate teething toy on their own. Saying “Ouch!” The next time your puppy becomes too exuberant and nips you, say “OUCH!” in a very shocked tone and immediately stop playing with them. Your puppy should learn - just as they did with their littermates - that their form of play has become unwanted. When they stop, ensure that you follow up with positive reinforcement by offering praise, treat and/or resuming play. Letting every interaction with your puppy be a learning opportunity. While there are moments of dedicated training time, every interaction with your dog can be used as a potential teaching moment.

Hello Aura, First, I would work on teaching the puppy to heel without your other dog. Check out the Turns or Treat Lure methods from the article linked below - pup is currently jumping on the older dog to try to get them to play for entertainment, most likely, so using treats to motivate pup to heel gives pup something else fun to focus on. Heel: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Once pup can heel well and focuses on you during the walk, begin walking the dogs together again. Keep the dogs on separate sides at first and reward pup for heeling and focusing on you. With the dogs on separate sides, when pup tries to cross in front or behind you to get to your other dog, use the leash to direct pup back to their spot so you don't trip on them, while also turning abruptly in front of pup - like if pup is walking on your left side, turn left in front of pup, so that they have to refocus back on where you are walking to make the turn with you and get out of your way. Reward pup as soon as they refocus on you. You will need some patience with this! If will likely take some practice and consistency to get puppy to leave your older dog alone and focus on the walk - but you are also teaching good heeling, attention around distractions, and leaving your older dog alone, so pup is actually learning a lot of things they can use later. Finally, I would teach pup the Leave It and Out commands so that you can use those to tell pup to give your older dog space as needed too. Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite If your older dog doesn't heel well, you will want to work with them on that separate of puppy also, so that you can rely on them to heel while walking the dogs together, and focus more of your attention on the puppy. Depending on your older dog's level of training, I would often have my older dog on a hands-free leash (that dog was off leash trained at that point though so I wasn't worried about being pulled off my feet) so that I could focus on training the puppy and maneuvering puppy's leash better during the early months. This may or may not be an option for you, depending on whether your older dog is trained well enough to be reliable to never pull. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Ophelia, Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dog a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever he is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give him a treat. Try not to let puppy see you rewarding him though so that he doesn’t run over and overwhelm him. I also suggest crate training the puppy. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help him learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after him while you are home, you can also clip him to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that he has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed (like pup pestering your older dog). Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If puppy obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make your older dog leave the room while also disciplining pup by making them leave for antagonizing if they did. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want him to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to him and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or he has to hide all the time. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Angela, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed (like puppy whenever she is pestering Lon). Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when they are trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to them, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make your older dog leave the room while also disciplining pup if they antagonized first. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or has to hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give Lon a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever Lon is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give them a treat. Try not to let the puppy see you rewarding them though so that she doesn’t run over and overwhelm them. Right now Lon probably feels overwhelmed by the new arrival and because of Lon's age it’s harder for them to handle her and keep up with her energy. They need to feel like you are the one managing her, protecting them from her pestering them, and making her appearance pleasant for them. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer, then they may adjust to her presence as she grows, especially when she calms down when older. Don’t expect them to be best friends. The goal right now is calm, peaceful coexistence. They may end up bonding and enjoy each others company as adults later but they don’t have to play or be thrilled right now. Puppy may also benefit from some puppy playdates with other puppies, through friends, a puppy class with time for off-leash play, or play group. Puppies tend to learn social manners and how to control their mouths from playing with other similar aged puppies, best. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello. Here is information on puppy nipping/biting. Nipping: Puppies may nip for a number of reasons. Nipping can be a means of energy release, getting attention, interacting and exploring their environment or it could be a habit that helps with teething. Whatever the cause, nipping can still be painful for the receiver, and it’s an action that pet parents want to curb. Some ways to stop biting before it becomes a real problem include: Using teething toys. Distracting with and redirecting your dog’s biting to safe and durable chew toys is one way to keep them from focusing their mouthy energies to an approved location and teach them what biting habits are acceptable. Making sure your dog is getting the proper amount of exercise. Exercise is huge. Different dogs have different exercise needs based on their breed and size, so check with your veterinarian to make sure that yours is getting the exercise they need. Dogs—and especially puppies—use their playtime to get out extra energy. With too much pent-up energy, your pup may resort to play biting. Having them expel their energy in positive ways - including both physical and mental exercise - will help mitigate extra nips. Being consistent. Training your dog takes patience, practice and consistency. With the right training techniques and commitment, your dog will learn what is preferred behavior. While sometimes it may be easier to let a little nipping activity go, be sure to remain consistent in your cues and redirection. That way, boundaries are clear to your dog. Using positive reinforcement. To establish preferred behaviors, use positive reinforcement when your dog exhibits the correct behavior. For instance, praise and treat your puppy when they listen to your cue to stop unwanted biting as well as when they choose an appropriate teething toy on their own. Saying “Ouch!” The next time your puppy becomes too exuberant and nips you, say “OUCH!” in a very shocked tone and immediately stop playing with them. Your puppy should learn - just as they did with their littermates - that their form of play has become unwanted. When they stop, ensure that you follow up with positive reinforcement by offering praise, treat and/or resuming play. Letting every interaction with your puppy be a learning opportunity. While there are moments of dedicated training time, every interaction with your dog can be used as a potential teaching moment.

Hello Jennifer, For the biting, I recommend teaching pup the Leave It command. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I also recommend teaching pup Out - which means leave the area, and using the section on how to use out to deal with pushy behavior, and you enforce Out on behalf of the older dogs so they don't have to deal with pup. This helps pup learn respect for them as an extension of pup respecting you, and takes the pressure off the older dogs to handle things. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ For the pee pad training, I recommend following the Crate Training or Exercise Pen method from the article linked below. If pup tends to pee next to the pad instead of on it, even with the exercise pen method, then follow the crate training method for a couple of weeks until pup has learned to target the pad, then you can switch to the exercise pen method for the convenience of that method if you prefer to use that instead of the crate training method over the next couple months. Exercise pen method or crate training method - these methods can be used with pee pads, disposable real grass pads, or litter boxes, not just with litter boxes. https://wagwalking.com/training/litter-box-train-a-chihuahua-puppy Finally, when you aren't supervising pup with the older dogs, I also recommend confining pup to an exercise pen or crate with a dog food stuffed chew toy, to give the older dogs a break and keep pup out of trouble, like chewing. The Surprise method can be used to teach pup to handle some alone time. When you are home, you can also tether pup to yourself with a hands free leash (add a carabiner to a normal leash for a cheap option), to keep pup closer to you and not bothering the older dogs as needed too. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate/ Know that this behavior is also normal though. Enrolling pup in a puppy kindergarten class or letting pup play with other young puppies can help pup learn to control the pressure of their bite also, once pup is old enough to join a class. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Jason, I recommend teaching pup the Out (which means leave the area), Leave It, and Place commands. I also recommend crate training pup, and when you can't directly supervise the dogs together give pup dog food stuffed hollow chew toys - like kongs, in the crate or exercise pen, or tether pup to yourself with a hands free leash, to manage their interactions until pup learns to give the older dog space. Out - especially the section on how to teach Out and how to use Out to deal with pushy behavior, once pup has learned what Out means. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Place - this can be a place where pup can go to chew on toys and relax while the dogs are in the same room, if pup is feeling tempted to keep going over to your older dog. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Crate Training - Surprise method: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate/ Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Tasha, When she gets to worked pup playing and is biting hard, I recommend interrupting the play, having her preform a couple commands to earn treats and calm down, then once calm, if your older dog still wants to play, you can allow them to resume. I also recommend seeing if there are other puppies your dog can play with in your area, such as friends' puppies, a play group, or class. Puppies tend to learn how to control the pressure of their mouths and take breaks as needed best from other puppies and the feedback they give during play. The Out and Leave It commands are good commands to teach to manage biting. Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello, Vinnie needs to learn to respect Belle and she should not have to put up with his puppy antics all of the time. Take a look here: https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog. The What NOT to Do Method and the Respect the Resident Method are both important. Remember Belle was there first and may find Vinnie an intrusion. Her world has turned upside down and Vinnie cannot be allowed to edge her on when she's had enough. Make sure she has a place where she can retreat to for peace and a little rest when she is in the mood for that. Once a few boundaries and rules are put in place, I am sure they will get along. Keep working to train Vinnie and make sure that he gets plenty of exercise! That way he will not bother Belle quite as much. Happy training and all the best to both dogs!

Hello! This is tricky because it sounds like they are not sorting out their items on their own. Dogs are usually excellent communicators. One harsh bark from and older dog will usually put a puppy in its place. Normally I tell people to let their dogs sort it out over the course of a few days. But that is not working! So you will have to step in and teach them how to operate as a team. Do everything with them together. Walks together, teaching training commands together, games, other forms of exercise, etc. Also try to fill their food bowls at the same time if possible. That way neither of them is eating before the other.

Hello Stephanie, I agree that it does appear to be an issue of competing for dominance and control, with Hannah being the instigator. There may be something that started it that you are unaware of but Hannah approaching sexual and metal maturity with age may also be why it's becoming more obvious now. I recommend desensitizing the dogs to wearing a basket muzzle, especially Hannah, using food rewards gradually. I would also work on building Hannah's respect for you through obedience drills, structured routines, and how you interact with the dogs and mediate their interactions with each other. I highly recommend hiring a professional trainer who specializes in behavior issues to work with you on how to do this in your own home in person. Look for someone who comes well recommended for aggression and behavior issues from their previous clients. Since Hannah is a lot bigger than Lilo you don't want them working it out themselves. You want both dogs, especially Hannah, to trust and respect you, for you to create new rules about how they are allowed to interact with each other, then you safely enforce those rules while things like basket muzzles, drag leashes, and commands are used to manage their interactions - until all is needed is voice control. You want Hannah to learn to respect Lilo as an extension of you, not because Lilo has to gain Hannah's respect herself. This should be done calmly, consistently and through a lot of proactive training and practice with obedience commands, not through things that will cause Hannah to react defensively toward you - like rolling a dog onto their back. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Tara, When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out and Leave It commands (Out means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed (like pup pestering your puppy). Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I also recommend teaching both Place, so that when the temptation to bother is too great, or you are trying to train the other dog, you can send the second dog to Place. Place command: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s In general as puppy grows, I recommend the following to help prevent jealously and competing. Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your younger dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If pup obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your other dog, blocking Bailey from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your other dog. If your older dog growls at your puppy, make your older dog leave the room while also disciplining pup by making them leave for antagonizing if they did. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of the dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and to learn respect for each other because you have taught it to them and not because either had to resort to pushiness or aggression or avoid the other dog to be left alone. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello! Puppies learn by testing the boundaries and it sounds like that is exactly what he is doing. It is best to let them sort it out on their own. If we step in, they don't really understand it as much as when the reaction comes from another dog. He is in his prime socialization stage and really needs those interactions with littermates. Maverick is the next best thing and it sounds like he is being gentle with him which is really sweet. But it is likely that he will stick up for himself if things go too far. Keep an eye on Donovan over the next few weeks. As he learns boundaries, this behavior should start to become less severe. It is a good idea to start working on training commands with him so he starts to learn that the things you say are commands and expectations.

Hello! This is tricky because it sounds like they are not sorting out their items on their own. Dogs are usually excellent communicators. One harsh bark from and older dog will usually put a puppy in its place. Normally I tell people to let their dogs sort it out over the course of a few days. But that is not working! So you will have to step in and teach them how to operate as a team. Do everything with them together. Walks together, teaching training commands together, games, other forms of exercise, etc. Also try to fill their food bowls at the same time if possible. That way neither of them is eating before the other.

Hello Andrew, First, when pup is old enough look for a puppy class that has time for puppy play, and you can attend one of those with her so that she can learn how to control the pressure of her bite by playing with other puppies. Petco and some other pet stores with training offer free puppy play classes if you call and ask for the schedule. If you have any friends with puppies under 6 months of age, set up play dates with those puppies too. Moderate the puppies' play and whenever one pup seems overwhelmed or they are all getting too excited, interrupt their play, let everyone calm down, then let the most timid pup go first to see if they still want to play - if they do, then you can let the other puppies go too when they are waiting for permission. Second, check out the article linked below. Starting today, use the "Bite Inhibition" method. At the same time however, begin teaching "Leave It" from the "Leave It" method. As soon as pup is good as the Leave It game, start telling pup to "Leave It" when she attempts to bite or is tempted to bite. Reward pup if she makes a good choice. If she disobeys your leave it command, use the Pressure method to gently discipline pup for biting when you told her not to. The order or all of this is very important - the bite inhibition method can be used for the next month while pup is learning leave it, but leave it will teach pup to stop the biting entirely. The pressure method teaches pup that you mean what you say without being overly harsh - but because you have taught pup to leave it first, pup clearly understands that you are not just roughhousing (which is what pup probably thinks most of the time right now), so it is more effective. https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite When pup gets especially wound up, she probably needs a nap too. At this age puppies will sometimes get really hyper when they are overtired or haven't had any mental stimulation through something like training. When you spot that and think pup could be tired, place pup in their crate or an exercise pen with a food stuffed Kong for a bit to help her calm down and rest. Also, know that mouthiness at this age is completely normal. It's not fun but it is normal for it to take some time for a puppy to learn self-control well enough to stop. Try not to get discouraged if you don't see instant progress, any progress and moving in the right direction in this area is good, so keep at it. Commands that increase self-control in general and teach pup calmness are also good things to teach. These commands will take time to teach of course, but they can also be a great way to create your own puppy class with pup. If you have other friends' with puppies, why not invite them over, sending them the following videos and articles too, and practice it all together - allowing puppies to learn and be socialized. Leave It: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Out - which means leave the room: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Millie, At 6 weeks pup was really too young to be taken away from her mother. She was probably only weaned the week before, so that's likely why she is trying to nurse. How is pup's eating and drinking? If it doesn't seem to be as good as it needs to be, I would speak with your vet about that, and whether pup needs kibble to be watered down with puppy milk replacement. I suspect she is okay without but speak with your vet if there is any doubt. I am not a vet. As far as pestered your older dog, I recommend teaching pup the Leave It command. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I also recommend teaching pup Out - which means leave the area, and using the section on how to use out to deal with pushy behavior, and you enforce Out on behalf of the older dog so they don't have to deal with pup. This helps pup learn respect for them as an extension of pup respecting you, and takes the pressure off the older dogs to handle things. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ I recommend following the Crate Training or Exercise Pen method from the article linked below. Exercise pen method or crate training method - these methods can be used with pee pads, disposable real grass pads, or litter boxes, not just with litter boxes for indoor potty training - if that's your end goal. https://wagwalking.com/training/litter-box-train-a-chihuahua-puppy Crate training method - for outside potty training, if that's your goal: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-german-shepherd-puppy-to-poop-outside Finally, when you aren't supervising pup with the older dog, I also recommend confining pup to an exercise pen or crate with a dog food stuffed chew toy, to give the older dog a break and keep pup out of trouble, like chewing. The Surprise method can be used to teach pup to handle some alone time. When you are home, you can also tether pup to yourself with a hands free leash (add a carabiner to a normal leash for a cheap option), to keep pup closer to you and not bothering the older dogs as needed too. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate/ Be patient with pup, this is normally the age where they would be wrestling with other puppies and learning about biting that way too, so this will take some practice over several weeks, and that's normal. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello, the peeing and pooping everywhere is no doubt a stress reaction on Benji's part. His world has changed a lot and he may not know how to cope just yet. It's important to make sure that Benji's routine and sense of being number 1 do not change. Take him for lots of walks (even more often than before). When Gohan comes along, this will help as it will allow the dogs to get to know each other on neutral ground. Don't allow Gohan to bother Benji - make sure that Benji has a quiet place to go and rest when he wants to, where Gohan won't arrive and interrupt. This guide has great tips; read it in full as it gives good advice on helping both dogs adjust, but especially Benji: https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog. Make sure you are working on obedience training with Gohan (and Benji, too - it never hurts to refresh the commands): https://wagwalking.com/training/obedience-train-a-great-dane. Good luck!

Hello Megan, I would mediate their interactions and you be the one to teach pup and separate, so that your older dog doesn't feel as defensive and it will be less likely to turn into future aggression issues between them. For the biting, I recommend teaching pup the Leave It command. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I also recommend teaching pup Out - which means leave the area, and using the section on how to use out to deal with pushy behavior, and you enforce Out on behalf of the older dog so they don't have to deal with pup. This helps pup learn respect for them as an extension of pup respecting you, and takes the pressure off the older dog to handle things. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Finally, when you aren't supervising pup with the older dog, I also recommend confining pup to an exercise pen or crate with a dog food stuffed chew toy, to give the older dog a break and keep pup out of trouble, like chewing. The Surprise method can be used to teach pup to handle some alone time. When you are home, you can also tether pup to yourself with a hands free leash (add a carabiner to a normal leash for a cheap option), to keep pup closer to you and not bothering the older dog as needed too. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate/ Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Alice, I would mediate their interactions and you be the one to teach pup and separate, so that your older dog doesn't feel as defensive and it will be less likely to turn into future aggression issues between them. For the biting, I recommend teaching pup the Leave It command. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I also recommend teaching pup Out - which means leave the area, and using the section on how to use out to deal with pushy behavior, and you enforce Out on behalf of the older dog so they don't have to deal with pup. This helps pup learn respect for them as an extension of pup respecting you, and takes the pressure off the older dog to handle things. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ When you aren't supervising pup with the older dog, I also recommend confining pup to an exercise pen or crate with a dog food stuffed chew toy, to give the older dog a break and keep pup out of trouble, like chewing. The Surprise method can be used to teach pup to handle some alone time. When you are home, you can also tether pup to yourself with a hands free leash (add a carabiner to a normal leash for a cheap option), to keep pup closer to you and not bothering the older dog as needed too. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate/ When your older dog is being tolerant and calm when puppy is around you can also give your older dog a treat without puppy seeing you do it - you don't want pup running over to beg for one too and overwhelming your older dog, so be sneaky about it. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Shannon, For the biting, I recommend teaching pup the Leave It command. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I also recommend teaching pup Out - which means leave the area, and using the section on how to use out to deal with pushy behavior, and you enforce Out on behalf of the older dog so they don't have to deal with pup. This helps pup learn respect for them as an extension of pup respecting you, and takes the pressure off the older dog to handle things. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Finally, when you aren't supervising pup with the older dog, I also recommend confining pup to an exercise pen or crate with a dog food stuffed chew toy, to give the older dog a break and keep pup out of trouble, like chewing. The Surprise method can be used to teach pup to handle some alone time. When you are home, you can also tether pup to yourself with a hands free leash (add a carabiner to a normal leash for a cheap option), to keep pup closer to you and not bothering the older dog as needed too. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate/ It can take some time for puppies to learn self-control. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Sarah, In most cases that should be fine. What I would encourage is having the Pitbull heel so they are also walking with you, instead of having them run back and forth and roam further away. The Pitbull being off leash shouldn't be an issue between the dogs is they are walking with you. If they are running about and making the spaniels want to follow, they may feel frustrated being leashed because they want to roam after the other dog. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello, my first recommendation would be to start obedience training with Bella right away. This can either be in-class training or at home, but it has to be consistent. Bella cannot continue to be allowed to bother Buddy this way as I am afraid it may only get worse. Buddy is the older resident and deserves respect - I know you agree and that is why you are writing in, but I have to emphasize that Bella can be taught to leave Buddy in peace. Does Buddy have a place he can retreat to when he feels like being alone? He should. Other excellent tips can be found here: https://wagwalking.com/training/accept-a-new-dog. Please read the entire guide and especially take note of the Respect the Resiedent Method as it will give you the tips you are looking for. As you work on training Bella, I would have her sit before every event to teach her to listen to you (sit before her meal is placed down, sit before she gets her leash on for a walk, sit before playtime, etc). She'll learn that she needs to listen to get good things. Here is a good article on the basis of training:https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-pitbull-puppy-to-be-obedient. I would also look into training in your area because socializing Bella will help, and the mental and physical exercise will tire her out, calming her down at home. Good luck!

Hello Nikki, What you are describing does sound normal at this age, but I would also mediate their play and teach some commands to help you regulate when they can play, when they need to give each other a break playing, and when you simply just want things to be calm in the home. Out - which means leave the area, can be used to command them to leave one another alone when one needs a break. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method - when one starts to play and you don't want them to begin: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Place command - to teach them to simply hang out in the same room calmly: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s You may also need to keep a leash that drags on the floor, on them when you are home to supervise and make sure it doesn't get caught on anything, while you are first working on the commands and new rules. If one dog isn't obeying a command, then you can calmly walk over, pick up the end of the leash and enforce out or Place. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Tina, I recommend teaching pup the Leave It command. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I also recommend teaching pup Out - which means leave the area, and using the section on how to use out to deal with pushy behavior, and you enforce Out on behalf of the older dogs so they don't have to deal with pup. This helps pup learn respect for them as an extension of pup respecting you, and takes the pressure off the older dogs to handle things. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Finally, at this age when you aren't supervising pup with the older dog, I also recommend confining pup to an exercise pen or crate with a dog food stuffed chew toy, to give the older dog a break and keep pup out of trouble, like chewing. The Surprise method can be used to teach pup to handle some alone time. When you are home, you can also tether pup to yourself with a hands free leash (add a carabiner to a normal leash for a cheap option), to keep pup closer to you and not bothering the older dogs as needed too. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate/ Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Erin, Hello Lizzi, I would work on crate training pup, teaching Out - which means leave the area, teaching Leave It, and Place. These commands, once learned, can help them learn when to give space. You will need to be the one to create and enforce rules for the dogs, instead of depending on your older dog to teach pup. The Out method can be especially helpful. I recommend crating pup or putting pup in an exercise pen with dog food stuffed chew toys when you can't supervise them together at pup's age. You can also use a hands-free leash to tether pup to yourself. Adding a simple carabiner to your regular leash handle or purchasing something like Vir-Chew-Ly chew proof leashes, can help with tethering, Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Surprise method - crate training: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate I would consider enrolling in a puppy kindergarten class to help pup learn to adapt their play to be gentle and provide the socialization your older dog can't give. Check out the article linked below on classes. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/puppy-classes-when-to-start/ Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Rita, I recommend working on Leave It, Out, and Come commands with her, then working up to pup obeying those commands around your other dog. To start, I would purchase a padded back clip harness and long leash, and when you can't supervise the dogs, keeping them apart of her in the crate, and when you can supervise, practice her being on the long leash, with no more than 10" feet at first to keep her from jerking the leash out of your yards or harming herself. Use the commands you have taught to teach her to give him space, then use the leash to reel her if she disobeys and tries to pester him again. Practicing consistently that way until she will respond to your commands before having to reel her in, at which point you can transition to just a short drag leash and commands but still supervising, then no leash and just commands, then give more freedom with them together similar to what you are doing right now, again. Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Place command: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Come - Reel in method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-whippet-to-recall Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Lincoln, Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dogs a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever he is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give him a treat. Try not to let puppy see you rewarding them (or each of the older dogs the other one) though so that he doesn’t run over and overwhelm him. I also suggest crate training the puppy. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help him learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after him while you are home, you can also clip him to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that he has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. While you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed (like pup pestering one of your older dogs). Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for the dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If puppy obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make your older dog leave the room while also disciplining pup by making them leave for antagonizing if they did. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want him to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dogs because you have taught it to him and not because your older dogs have had to resort to aggression or have to hide all the time. If pup is doing a lot of play biting, I also recommend teaching Leave It. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Karen, I generally recommend moderating interactions and play when one dog seems stressed or tired, and the other one isn't giving them a break on their own. First, I highly suggest crate training the puppies. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help him learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pups at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppies should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach all dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if a pup comes over to your older dog when she is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If puppy obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to her, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make your older dog leave the room while also disciplining pup by having them give space for antagonizing if they pestered first. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want her to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppies to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to them and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or she has to hide all the time. If you want pups to be free but don't want to chase after them while you are home, you can also clip one of them to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that he has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever a puppy enters the room, give your older dog a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever she is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give her a treat. Try not to let puppies see you rewarding her though so that they don’t run over and overwhelm her. Right now your older dog probably feels overwhelmed by pup. She needs to feel like you are the one managing pups, protecting your older dog from them pestering her, and making their appearance pleasant for your older dog. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer, then she may adjust to pup's presence as they grows, especially when he calms down when older. The goal right now is calm, peaceful coexistence. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Tom, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ I also recommend starting to teach pup the Leave It command from the article I have linked below. This will take some time for pup to gain the self-control needed, so a bit of perseverance will be needed at this age. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make him leave the room while also disciplining pup by having her leave if she was pestering. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want him to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or he has to hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give Harry a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever he is calm, relaxed or tolerant of Daisy also give him a treat. Try not to let pup see you rewarding him though so that she doesn’t run over and overwhelm him. Right now Harry probably feels overwhelmed by her and because of his age it’s harder for him to handle her and keep up with her energy. He needs to feel like you are the one managing her, protecting him from her pestering him, and making her appearance pleasant for him. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer, then he may adjust to her presence as she grows, especially when she calms down when older. Don’t expect them to be best friends. The goal right now is calm, peaceful coexistence. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Lottie, Most puppies do not understand boundaries with other dogs very well yet, especially more outgoing puppies. Having pup join a class or play group with other young puppies can help pup learn social skills and control of their bite pressure sooner, but in general this does take time and pup maturing to improve. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/puppy-classes-when-to-start/ Even though it's normal and it can take time to improve, that doesn't mean however that you need to just let it happen. I do highly recommend intervening and preserving the peace in the household to prevent aggression or fear leading to a bad relationship between them later. For the biting, I recommend teaching pup the Leave It command. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I also recommend teaching pup Out - which means leave the area, and using the section on how to use out to deal with pushy behavior, and you enforce Out on behalf of the older dogs so they don't have to deal with pup. This helps pup learn respect for them as an extension of pup respecting you, and takes the pressure off the older dogs to handle things. https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ I would also crate train the puppy, and when you can't supervise the dogs together, give pup a dog food stuffed chew toy and have them rest in an exercise pen or crate. Crate training is also helpful for preventing destructive chewing habits from developing - teaching pup to chew their own toys instead, potty training, and even preventing future separation anxiety later, by helping pup learn gradually how to handle some independence now. You can also tether the puppy to yourself with a hands free leash when your older dog needs a break but you don't want to have to intervene between them so much yourself. If you are concerned for the puppies safety, I would hire a professional trainer who specializes in behavior issues and comes well recommended by their clients in this area, to come to your home in person, evaluate the dogs together and step in to help with the training and management of the two dogs. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Melissa, Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. After you teach Out, pay special attention to the section on How to Use Out to Deal with Pushy Behavior. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ I also recommend teaching pup Leave It. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Decide what your house rules are for the dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, no bothering another dog when they want to be left alone, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If puppy obeys, praise and reward him. If he disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make your older dog leave the room while also disciplining pup by having them move away for antagonizing if needed. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dogs because you have taught it to him and not because your older dogs have had to resort to aggression or hide all the time. I would also use a hands free leash for times when you want pup to be free but they aren't respecting your dog's space. Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dog a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever older dogs are calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give them a treat. Try not to let puppy see you rewarding them though so that he doesn’t run over and overwhelm the dog getting the treat though. When puppies are overly excited, the often need a nap, or mental stimulation as well. I would give pup a dog food stuffed chew toy in their crate to help them rest and calm down for a bit, or have a training session with pup or a puzzle type toy to give mental stimulation. In general, do know that pup's behavior is normal at this age. Check out the resources below to help pup learn more manners in general as they mature. Also, know that maturity with age tends to help many dogs as well. Chewing: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/train-dog-not-to-chew/ Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo Heel article - The turns method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-poodle-to-heel Down-Stay: https://www.thelabradorsite.com/train-your-labrador-to-lie-down-and-stay/ Puppy Class videos: Week 1, pt 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnhJGU2NO5k Week 1, pt 2: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-1-part-2-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 2, pt 1 https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-2-part-1-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 2, pt 2: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-2-part-2-home-jasper-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 3, pt 1: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-3-part-1-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 3, pt 2: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-3-part-2-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 4, pt 1: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-4-part-1-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 4, pt 2: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-4-part-2-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 5, pt 1: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-5-part-1-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 5, pt 2: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-5-part-2-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 6, pt 1: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-6-part-1-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1 Week 6, pt 2: https://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/week-6-part-2-sirius-berkeley-puppy-1-0 Finally, check out the PDF e-book downloads found on this website, written by one of the founders of the association of professional dog trainers, and a pioneer in starting puppy kindergarten classes in the USA. Click on the pictures of the puppies to download the PDF books: https://www.lifedogtraining.com/freedownloads/ What I gave above is a lot of info and things to teach. Try not to feel overwhelmed by too much info. This info is for the next 6+ months, expect gradual progress as you raise pup to be a well mannered and enjoyable pup who can fit in with the family, instead of instant results in the next week. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Leila, I would teach all the dogs directional, management commands, like Leave It, Out, and Place. Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O75dyWITP1s Out - which means leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite I would also work on building all of the dogs' respect for you, since it sounds like listening could be improved and there may be some possessiveness of you. https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-doberman-to-listen-to-you I do recommend hiring a professional trainer who specializes in behavior issues like aggression, will come to your home to train there, comes well recommended by their previous clients, and can work with you in person, one-on-one, to help. Having someone evaluate the interactions and body language between the dogs, as well as what the current boundaries and relationship with each with you are is important for addressing some of the underlying issues that are likely going on. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Marsha, It sounds like pup is possessive of you, which is a form of resource guarding people. This is likely related to a lack of respect for you. I recommend hiring a professional trainer who specializes in behavior issues like aggression, to work on both the resource guarding and possessiveness of you. This will probably involve things like having pup earn everything they get in life by obeying a command before you pet, feed, play with, or give attention to them, giving more consistent boundaries and rules for the dogs, you being the one to enforce rules calmly between them, practicing obedience commands that build respect, like Down-Stay, long Place command, structured Heel, crate training, Leave It, Quiet, and Out. In addition to building respect for you, with safety measures like a back tie leash, pup can also be desensitized to your other dog approaching when they have a toy, giving treats for pup responding with relaxed body language when your other dog passes by, putting enough distance between them that you can get that calm response to reward, then very gradually decreasing the distance between them as pup begins to associate the other dog's presence with good things and feels less tense around them. This helps build trust between the dogs, while controlling the situation for safety and training purposes. When you can't control the setting, I would keep the things pup is guarding put up, feed the dog in separate closed crates, and get a solid 1 hour place command worked up to for both, to give space between them when in the same room. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Beth, First, since there has been an attack where blood was drawn, I would recommend hiring a professional trainer who specializes in behavior issues like aggression, comes well recommend by their previous clients, and will come to your home, to help in person with this training need. I suggest teaching both dogs Out (which means leave the area) and Place - which is similar to Stay but on a certain spot and they can sit, stand, or lie down but can't get off the spot. Practicing Place with both dogs in the same room on separate place beds can help facilitate calmness around each other and respect for you. Out is great for giving direction and giving a consequence of leaving the room when there is pushiness or mild resource guarding. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omg5DVPWIWo I also suggest crate training both dogs so that they can have a calm place to chew on a chew toy away from each other when things are tense, or one dog is pestering the other, or you are not home to supervise while they are still getting to know each other. Crate training is an important potty training and safety measure for a young pup also. An open crate while you are home can also serve as an additional Place to practice, and feeding both dogs in separate locked crates can prevent food resource guarding and remove stress around mealtimes! Surprise method - for introducing crate for first time: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem, you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your other dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your other dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your other dog. If your older dog pushes pup or gets between you and pup uninvited, tell your older dog Out and enforce him leaving. When he is waiting for his turn patiently, then send pup to place and invite your older dog over - no demanding of attention right now from either dog. Make them wait or do a command first to work for your attention if pushiness is an issue, and make them leave if being pushy or aggressive. If your older dog growls at pup, make him leave the room while also carefully disciplining pup similarly if pup antagonized him first. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your dogs - you want them to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for them to learn respect for each other because you have taught it to them and not because they have used aggression. When pup first enters the room, give your older dog a treat without pup seeing so pup is associated with good things for your older dog - treats stop when pup leaves. When your older dog is being calm, tolerant, and friendly without acting dominant and pushy toward pup, you can also calmly give a treat. Keep the energy calm when interacting with the dogs. Don't feel sorry for either dog but give clear boundaries instead. Don't expect them to be best friends right now - the goal is calm co-existence. When puppy matures and they have learned good manners around each other, they may decide to be friends as adults, but calmness, tolerance, and co-existence comes first. I would also consider desensitizing your older dog to wearing a basket muzzle using food rewards, gradually, so that you know pup an wear that when safety is an issue. Advocate for your older dog by enforcing the younger dog giving them space also. Don't allow pup to pester them. A solid Place, Leave It, and Out command is just as important for the puppy as it is for your older dog right now. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Jennifer, First, I highly suggest crate training the puppy. Almost all puppies will cry the first two weeks of crate training - it is new to them and they have to be given the opportunity to learn to self-sooth and self-entertain to prepare them for environments they will have to be in later and prevent dangerous destructive chewing habits that happen without confinement. Use the Surprise method from the article linked below to gradually help her learn to be calm in the crate and to relax by using rewards for being Quiet. Surprise method: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Crate pup at night and when you leave, and you can use an exercise pen with some toys in it also. When you cannot directly supervise the dogs together, puppy should be crated or in the pen. When you are supervising, teach both dogs the Out command (which means leave the area) and make whoever is causing issues leave the area as needed. Out command: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ I also recommend teaching Leave It. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Decide what your house rules are for both dogs and you be the one to enforce the rules instead of the dogs. No aggression, no pushiness, no stealing toys, no stealing food, no being possessive of people or things, or any other unwanted behavior - if one dog is causing a problem you be the one to enforce the rules so that the dogs are NOT working it out themselves. For example, if pup comes over to your older dog when he is trying to sleep, tell pup Out. If she obeys, praise and reward her. If she disobeys, stand in front of your older dog, blocking the pup from getting to him, and walk toward pup calmly but firmly until pup leaves the area and stops trying to go back to your older dog. If your older dog growls at your pup, make him leave the room while also disciplining pup if needed. Be vigilant and take the pressure off of your older dog - you want him to learn to look to you when there is a problem, and for puppy to learn respect for your older dog because you have taught it to her and not because your older dog has had to resort to aggression or he has to hide all the time. If you want pup to be free but don't want to chase after her while you are home, you can also clip her to yourself using a six-foot leash, so that she has to stay near you and not wander near your other dog. Whenever puppy enters the room, give your older dog a treat while pup is not looking. Whenever he is calm, relaxed or tolerant of puppy also give him a treat. Try not to let her see you rewarding him though so that she doesn’t run over and overwhelm him. Right now your older dog probably feels overwhelmed by the puppy and because of his age it’s harder for him to handle her and keep up with her energy. He needs to feel like you are the one managing her, protecting him from her pestering him, and making her appearance pleasant for him. If you can take the pressure off of their relationship and help their interactions to be calmer, then he may adjust to her presence as she grows, especially when she calms down when older. Don’t expect them to be best friends. The goal right now is calm, peaceful coexistence. They may end up bonding and enjoy each others company as adults later but they don’t have to play or be thrilled right now. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Allison, First, look for a play bow. A play bow should come right before any play fighting. Play bow pictures: https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/2017/02/the-function-of-play-bows-in-dog-and.html Second, pay attention to overall body language. Do both dogs look happy and relaxed - they may tense up for a few seconds in concentration or play but you should see doggie grins, relaxed shoulders, loose tail, lifted or relaxed ears. Neither dog should look really tense or small or towering or have really flattened ears or tucked tail. A really tense or puffed up dog might be bullying another, and a tucked, tense or overly submissive looking dog may be fearful. Both dogs may look a bit submissive or confident, but it should seem happy and relaxed, with lots of movement, doggie grin, or play bows. Third, often dogs will start with play and things will get tense when one dog wants to quite or slow down and the other won't listen. If you suspect things are getting too rough for one dog (one keeps trying to walk away and the other won't let them, one is constantly pinned on the ground without taking turns being the one to pin, or is being chased without ever being the chaser back), then interrupt play, have pups do a couple commands to earn treats - to make this interruption something pup's learn to listen to willingly, then allow the dog who may need a break go free first. See if they reinitiate play with the other pup. If they do, you can let them play more. If not, they are done for now. Facilitate pup leaving them alone for a while. I would also highly recommend teaching the puppy commands like Leave It and Out, and crate training. Help pup learn to give the older dog a break, and generally let the older dog be the one to initiate play first, and not be pestered into playing by the puppy. Leave It method: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-shih-tzu-puppy-to-not-bite Out - leave the area: https://www.petful.com/behaviors/how-to-teach-a-dog-the-out-command/ Surprise method: https://wagwalking.com/training/like-a-crate Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden