[Two Bullies]

We just brought a 13 week old EB male puppy into the house with our neutered five year old male and there's been no peace since. Spike, the old guy absolutely hates this pup and has attacked him several times. Once resulting in injuries requiring a trip to the vet. Fortunately nothing serious. Spike was raised with an adult female and they fought on occasion when he was around two but it eventually passed and they stopped. We've had other puppies in the house and he gets along well. I don't understand what it is about this one. He sulks around the house. Sits in the corner and won't come when called and looks for any opportunity to go after the pup. Any suggestions? We really like both dogs but don't want to deal with this for the next few years.

 

[mom to many]

Usually it's not a good idea to have same sex bullies in the same house...they tend to be same sex aggressive. Also, having other puppies over to visit is different than your older bully having to share his 'space' on a fulltime basis.

Sorry I don't have any advice...hope things get better!

 

[Two Bullies]

Thanks for the reply and advice. You're not the first person to suggest that two males might be a problem. I'm surprised the breeder who is very reputable didn't warn us. We may have the opportunity to exchange him for a female but we've really gotten attached in the month the pup's been with us.

 

[SOFTAILJACQUE]

god thats a tough one...thats too bad they he doesnt accept the new baby ...being a male thats probably the problem...but you said he fought with your female too...if you want to try to get it to work I would say to call a trainer into your home right away and get some help with that..I know there are ways of working with it...let us know how you do ...the baby is adorable!!!!
I have a new baby here with a 10month old..he accepted her and loves her..he gets crabby sometimes but hes just a big goof..nothing like what you have going on...

 

[Two Bullies]

The rest of the story. It became apparent that no matter what we did Spike was never going to accept this male pup. We could not leave them alone for a minute without Spike going after the pup. We discussed how to handle this with the breeder and were advised that this wasn't going away. The breeder offered to find another home for the pup and as much as we loved the little guy we gave him up to a new home. Props to the breeder for going the extra mile and finding a good home for him AND refunding our money in full.

We are now on a list for a FEMALE pup due sometime in July and hopefully things will work out better this time. Spike is back to his old lazy, happy self and we hope looking forward to a little sister to keep him company.

 

[mom to many]

Glad things worked out and the breeder acted responsibly! I know it was tough to give him back, but it was definitely for the best...no sense in having two unhappy dogs!

Can't wait to see pics of the new one when she arrives!!!