Comments on: Territorial Aggression in Dogs: Why Does It Occur?

By: Ben Team

Ben Team — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 11:46:52 +0000

In reply to Nancy Rocker. Hey there, Nancy. We're so sorry to hear about the struggles with your pack! Given the complex dynamics at play between the three dogs, you probably want to get some in-person professional advice. But it the meantime, you should probably use some management strategies to keep the dogs separated, so that everyone stays safe. Things like dog gates and crates can be very helpful. Check out our article about living with two dogs who don't get along to see some more examples. Best of luck!

By: Nancy Rocker

Nancy Rocker — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 21:10:48 +0000

Hello, love your site. I have two smaller rescue dogs each about 12 pounds, one is blind, deaf and 14 years old. The other one is around 6 and had a very traumatic rescue experience so she’s on the insecure side. My daughter adopted an Irish terrier who is now just over a year old and over 40 pounds. My daughter and her dog stay with me for about half the week so the dog has done quite a bit of it’s growing up months at my home. Recently she has started attacking my smaller dogs – sometimes it’s over a treat that they have not eaten yet after she has eaten hers. Sometimes it’s over nothing obvious, just one of the smaller dogs passing by her. She also reacts and tries to bite them if I am holding them. I am at a loss for how to protect my dogs when my daughter and her dog are here. I have started feeding them separately and no longer allow the larger dog to sleep on my bed. I feel like I have to create a safe space for my dogs. I want to address this issue before it gets worse. Please give me any advice you can share.

By: Gina Marcou

Gina Marcou — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 13:32:37 +0000

Hello.. I posted on another section of this site (BMC) but did not see a response. I came across this section and thought I would post again. We adopted a BMC a little of 2 months ago. She is 1 yr 5 mos. approx. Her name is America and she has developed some territorial aggression. She barks, growls and has become mouthy with anyone who approaches our property, tries to greet her or has entered our home. We are starting this week with a certified behavioral trainer. I have consulted with the vet, the shelter trainer and the foster dad who had her before us. I am told that there is no history of aggression that resulted in biting. America listens to my husband and I well. She knows her commands and for the most part we can get her to obey. She is treat motivated. With all this said I have someone visiting me in March for a week and my daughter is coming to visit in May for a week. I am quite concerned. Is 4 months enough time to work with her to help alleviate this behavior?. Is it possible I will have to muzzle her, which to me makes me think it will just frustrate her even more? Thank you.

By: AdminLogin

AdminLogin — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 19:51:15 +0000

In reply to Ashley deCordre.

Hey Ashley – Ben is right, consulting an expert is definitely the way to go. However, if you wanted to work on some basics while waiting for an appointment, you could try tossing some high-value treats away from the yard whenever the neighbor dog is out. You’ll have to make a regular habit of this, but eventually, your dogs should learn to associate the new dog with yummies and won’t be so upset with the new dog’s presence. If you’re worried about safety, you could install an extra layer of fencing between the shared side to give yourself a bit of a barrier too.

Lastly, I have seen some folks wrap privacy screen netting around their fence to block the dog’s sightline to outside triggers. That might be helpful as well!

By: Ben Team

Ben Team — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 17:29:23 +0000

In reply to Ashley deCordre. Hey there, Ashley. Given the size of of your pooches and the fact that they're exhibiting aggressive behaviors, you should really reach out to a canine behaviorist pronto. Best of luck!