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Is this a modifiable behavior? Jealousy over child's attention to other dog?
I have a 5 year old Siberian Husky (Max), a 4 year old Lab/Collie mix (Annie), and a 2 year old human. Our two dogs have been together almost all their lives.
Annie is very well trained and behaved, but is generally uninterested in DS. However, she is extremely jealous of the attention he pays to Max and the attention Max pays to DS. In the last few weeks she's been very aggressively attacking Max.
For example, the other night DS was playing tug of war with Max, and she went ballistic and attacked Max. Yesterday, Max laid down next to DS on the porch and she attacked him again. She won't let him drink or eat, either. She snarls and growls at him, and bites him hard. No blood shed, but he did limp for about an hour after one attack.
This behavior just started, but she has been to the vet recently and has no medical problems. No changes in her environment, diet, or activity level. She still sleeps on the floor by my bed and is still very sweet to her human family. I've asked some friends and family for input and I keep hearing horrible, awful things I would never ever consider (like giving her away or putting her down) and am wondering if this is maybe a phase or if we need to get her into training.
My DH thinks Annie might be protecting DS, as if she thinks Max is too rough or dangerous for DS. DS has never, ever been harmed in any way by either dog and loves them both immensely.
What are your thoughts? Time for a trainer? Another vet visit?
Thank you so much for your insights- we have NO intention of rehoming her and very much want to solve this and keep them together.
Re: Is this a modifiable behavior? Jealousy over child's attention to other dog?
I agree. When these type of behavior problems pop up at this extreme getting the proper help ASAP is the best course of action.
Until then I would keep the dogs separated as much as possible, especially when they're around your DS.
Good luck with everything. I'm sure that you can find some ways to help her.