Any tips on teaching dogs....to get along?

[ecross1983]

Are there any tips on getting dogs to get along? I have a 1 1/2 year old collie mix and a Boxer puppy. They are very jealous of each other, which causes them to fight a lot. Sometimes it's just play and other times it can get pretty bad. They will sleep together at times, so they don't hate each other. I don't like listening to them or watching them fight. I just don't know how to break them of this.

We had a dog before Snoop. His name was Zip and he was a Terrier mix. Him and Lizzy did not get along AT ALL. They would not sleep together or be anywhere near each other. We had to get rid of him because of this and also because he would benefit better from being the "only dog". He always reminded us of a dog that would be good with an old couple. So, that's who we gave him to.

Is it worse with a male and female dog? Or female and female?

[maryjane238]

Normally tensions are worse with same sex dogs but they can still be bad with m/f combinations. The problem is that they are fighting to be the dominant dog in the pack. Of course, you should be the pack leader but there still has to be order below you. You need to establish which dog (should definitely be the older dog that has been around longer) is in charge. Always feed that dog first, show affection first, FORCE the puppy to be submissive to the older dog. If the puppy growls/bites (even if playing) at the older dog..."No!" and put them in a submissive position (on their side). (same technique works in dealing with puppy biting/playing with humans). I'd recommend hiring a behaviorist (NOT a trainer) to go over some ideas with you a little better. Also, cheesy as it may sound, watch the Dog Whisperer on the National Geographic channel....that guy is amazing! Good luck