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September 21, 2011

I got a new dog and he is trying to eat both dogs' food. Should there be a 'head' dog when it comes to feeding? Should they be fed together or separate? At the same time, same area or one first then the next? Which dog should be the dominant one? How can I help the dogs get along better?

Full Question:
Hello and thank you!

I have a little 7 year old Bichonfrise and 4.5 months ago I brought home a Bull Terrior pup. The Bichon is very reserved and does not like to play with other dogs rather be left alone. The Terrior is a happy energetic pup but has come into the home and dominated the Bichon male. The Terrior intimidates the Bichon with food by trying to eat both their food, cuts in front of human attention and generally annoys the Bichon, sometimes playfully biting him. Maybe it is causing either distress or left out and angry towards the terrier or even sometimes not eating. So should there be a 'head' dog when it comes to feeding and other? Should they be fed together or separate? At the same time, same area or one first then the next? If so which dog should be the dominant one? Also how can I help the dogs get along better? Should I worry about the Bichons safety in the future? The Bichon Is a bit distressed and angry towards the terrier but remains reserved. Thanks so much! :)
Cindy
Cindy Cindy's Answer:
I would not allow the puppy the freedom to behave this way. You are setting the relationship up (between the 2 dogs) for a big problem down the road. You need to provide rules and structure for the puppy and protect the older dog from being bothered.

I’d read the article Ed wrote on The Groundwork to Becoming your Puppy’s Pack Leader.

I’d read the article Ed wrote on introducing dogs. This is the way it should be done from the first day, but you can start over and separate the dogs now.

For the puppy, Your Puppy 8 weeks to 8 Months and Pack Structure for the Family Pet.

They should be fed separately, YOU should be the head dog and not allow the bothering of the older dog. I definitely would be worried about the safety of the bichon in the future. Take matters into your hands now before the bull terrier becomes more mature and starts showing some real aggression.

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Cindy Rhodes

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