What to do about dog "dominating" our other dog

[sashababe1]

Hi all - I'm new here, so to introduce myself I'm Holly, part of a family of 4 + 2 dogs; a 1 and a half year old male yorkshire terrier, Toby, and an unknown age, but assumed about 1 year old, rescue crossbreed - Meg; part jack russel and about that size.

We got Meg in August last year, and she's had some behavioural problems ever since. She snaps at people for little things, one minute is rubbing against your hand for affection and the next will go for you, barks at the slightest sound and despite our best efforts and the aid of a behaviourist, there has been no change. Obviously we're very attached to her, cos she's a lovely character when she's in a good mood, and we want to do what's best for her.

Anyway, my main concern is her relationship with our other dog. She is very energetic and loves to play, as was Toby before we got her. However she is very dominant over him, humps him, stands over him and harrasses him to play when he clearly doesn't want it (e.g. tries to back away, jumps on furniture/people for protection). This is a regular occurence, and she will often jump on him while he's sleeping and unprepared. Sometimes he likes to play, and that's fine, but she doesn't know when to stop - I believe she may not have been properly socialised, as he can squeal with pain, get angry or run away and she still keeps on going for him. We can seperate them, but as soon as we let go, she'l run straight back at him.

He never gets to "win" fights, as he is smaller and less strong. I think this is causing him stress, as he has become more aggressive towards other dogs since we got her, and gets far more excited when playing (especially when Meg constantly steals his toys!) as well as tugging at fabric with his teeth and other, seemingly frustration related behaviours. I don't know what's best to do, or whether this is harming Toby, so any advice would be helpful - obviously we want what's best for both of them but Meg is incredibly difficult to get the message across to!!

Thanks

Holly

[nick_j007]

Aw poor boy!

I would set him up with an area he can go to to sleep and rest when he wants to.

Remember it should be you calling the shots at the end of the day...don't allow things to get too 'high' before you eventually step in.

Nick