My 2-year-old Boxer, Bee, has started fighting with my 5-year-old Boston Terrier, Lilo. They usually get along great, but lately, they’ve been randomly fighting, and Lilo is getting hurt. It seems to happen out of nowhere. They’ll be fine one second, and then they’re going at it. I don’t know what’s causing it or how to stop it. Any advice would be appreciated.
Are there any toys, bones, or food around when the fights start? Sometimes that can trigger guarding behavior.
TomHenry said:
Are there any toys, bones, or food around when the fights start? Sometimes that can trigger guarding behavior.
There aren’t any toys or food around when it happens. It’s really random, like they’ll be fine one second and then fighting.
@JamesHenry
Got it. Maybe it’s play getting too rough. You might need to step in early to prevent it from escalating.
It might help to remove any high-value items when they’re together. That way, there’s less chance of conflict over stuff.
Ethan said:
It might help to remove any high-value items when they’re together. That way, there’s less chance of conflict over stuff.
Thanks, I’ll try that. Should I keep them separate more often too?
@JamesHenry
Separating them during high-energy times might be a good idea. It gives them space to calm down.
Have you noticed if one dog seems more dominant? That might give clues about what’s triggering the fights.
WilliamMia said:
Have you noticed if one dog seems more dominant? That might give clues about what’s triggering the fights.
Bee, the Boxer, seems more dominant. She doesn’t like Lilo getting too close to me or certain areas.
@JamesHenry
That makes sense. You might want to work on reinforcing commands like ‘place’ or ‘leave it’ to set boundaries.
What about using training collars? They could help reinforce good behavior.
dianastriver said:
What about using training collars? They could help reinforce good behavior.
I’ve thought about it but wasn’t sure if it would work for this kind of situation. Any tips?
@JamesHenry
Training collars are great for reinforcing obedience, but they might not stop a fight once it starts. Focus on prevention.
You could try training each dog separately to strengthen their obedience and build more control in group settings.
Donna said:
You could try training each dog separately to strengthen their obedience and build more control in group settings.
Good idea! Should I work on commands like ‘sit’ and ‘stay’ individually before trying them together?
@JamesHenry
Absolutely. Once they’re solid on individual commands, it’ll be easier to manage them together.