2 Puppies... Which is boss?

[Willowzee]

I know, I KNOW! Two puppies together was a stupid idea, but we're trying to work through it without having to give one up.

They are 8week old JRT/Springer X Breeds, both females. Most of the time they live in harmony, but they do obviously have their moments.

My question is, although the household (adults, children, whatever) are the alphas, how do I know which dog wins the beta position?

Do I watch them scrap and work out that way? I'm really not sure.

We are debating sending one back to the breeder, but we really want that to be a last resort, we just didn't realise at the time what a crazy idea it was, as we just lost our beloved family pet and it seemed like a "good" idea.

We're not irresponsible and just want whats best for the dogs, we're willing to put in the time and effort, and of course take them to classes, I just need some guidance.

Thank you

Heather

[nick_j007]

Originally Posted by Willowzee

I know, I KNOW! Two puppies together was a stupid idea, but we're trying to work through it without having to give one up.

They are 8week old JRT/Springer X Breeds, both females. Most of the time they live in harmony, but they do obviously have their moments.

My question is, although the household (adults, children, whatever) are the alphas, how do I know which dog wins the beta position?

Do I watch them scrap and work out that way? I'm really not sure.

We are debating sending one back to the breeder, but we really want that to be a last resort, we just didn't realise at the time what a crazy idea it was, as we just lost our beloved family pet and it seemed like a "good" idea.

We're not irresponsible and just want whats best for the dogs, we're willing to put in the time and effort, and of course take them to classes, I just need some guidance.

Thank you

Heather

Hi again Heather. You wrote via email and I responded. I thought I'd echo my thoughts here again as I help here.

My views are based on daily behaviour consultations, and a good number of these do in fact relate to siblings and the problems their owners experience. At this early age I am still inclined to advise you to return one. Sorry.

The breeder should not let two go together in my opinion. The breeder is at fault. The breeder has their pocket at heart rather than the dog and your welfare. You were grieving when you saw them together, your heart won over your head.

Do not allow two dogs to 'fight it out' this is old hat and ill advised. Two pups will inevitably play rough and that's to be expected, but once you feel it's getting out of hand you'll need to step in. These two may find it very hard to establish which one is the 'upper dog' in my experience as there is little if anything to separate them.

Aggression in the siblings is my main worry for you (and the dogs of course) and this remains my motivation is advising you return one now and accept my experienced view. I know it's not what you want to hear but you did ask

Feel free to call me to discuss it if you like. I'm about a bit today and tomorrow.

Nick