Fighting it out?!

lglf4

So, we rescued a dog last weekend.  We had two dogs, and newbie makes three.  So, my little girl doesn't react well to newbie when one of them is with me--ALWAYS starts a fight.  I don't mean a little fussy--I mean a teeth bared, violent fight.  I have to keep them separated.  I have an appointment with the behaviorist on Monday, but most people are telling me that if I let them settle it ont their own, to fight it out, so to speak, that they'll make their peace and move on.  My little angry one weighs twice what newbie weighs, so I think she could really hurt him.  I'm not comfortable with everyone telling me to let them fight it out once and for all.  Am I just being overprotective, or is there something to this theory?  Also, I'm dying to see how the behaviorist is going to resolve this--does anyone have any thoughts?  I just want to get back to the days of snuggling on the sofa with my babies, plus newbie.

lglf4

I should also mention that every time I break them up, my little angry one attacks whoever's closest, my other dog or me.  She's drawn blood from me at least 3 times in the last week.  Thundershirt works okay, but she's already had bloodwork at the vet's office, so that the vet, behaviorist, and I can discuss possible meds for her.  All 3 of my dogs are rescues, plus they're little, so they're a little crazy.

Mryan209

I think the potential risks of letting them "fight it out" are far greater than the potential benefits.  If it was a small warning snap and the other dog respected it, that's one thing.  It sounds like this is a full on fight and given the size difference, I do think the one dog could cause serious damage.  I'd personally keep them separated until your meeting with the behaviorist. 

straymo

How did you introduce newbie to your dogs? Did you just plop him/her in and hoped they'd figure it out? Many dogs don't deal well with that. Newbie was probably nervous and your girl is taking advantage of that. Try walking them next to each other - two separate people holding each one slowly increasing distance. Good reaction = treats. I'd keep newbie completely separated in your house/yard for now. It can take time, then hopefully she'll settle down. All my opinion of course.

jen812

I wouldn't let them fight it out either. You also need to protect yourself. Even if the dogs are little, if they bite you the wrong way it could require stitches. 

She is resource guarding ( the resource being you). Look up NILIF. You'll find some advice on stopping that behavior.

I think your best bet is getting help from the behaviorist. Good luck. Let us know how it goes.