Ask the Trainer - Food Fighting Frenchies
gollygear March 11th, 2008
Food Fighting Frenchies
HI, I have two adult females that have grown up together from puppies but occasionally will get into fights, and they are hurting each other. It is always when we are around though, especially my husband, and the attention seems to be one trigger. Food is another and we feed in separate rooms and do not give treats when they are together. They can fight and then lick each other lovingly later. One female is more aggressive than the other and, yes - it is worse when one is near heat.
We are breeding them so, I do not want to neuter. What advice can you give?
Hope writes -
I don’t think you’re going to be happy with the advice I have for you -
Spay. Crate. Separate.
Firstly: I would recommend that you spay your dogs. Aggression is not a trait that should be perpetuated, or tolerated.
Secondly: how are you reacting when “the girls” start spatting? The correct response is to slam a heavy book or unbreakable object on the ground, yell “no,” and run in the other direction. When they’ve broken off their battle to see what the heck you’re up to - both should be crated for a “time out.”
If attention is the trigger - give the dog not getting direct attention something else to do, gnaw on a chew toy, fetch a toy, tug etc. Even practise obedience behaviors - “Down, Stay” is excellent.
Feed them in their crates - no interaction, no guarding, no battles. Remove their bowls in 10 minutes, if they haven’t finished, they’ll learn to be faster next time.
It sounds like your dogs are setting the rules in your house instead of obeying them. Everyone is happier when the humans are in charge. If you aren’t confident in your ability to train your dogs, do get some help. Get recommendations from friends, family, local veterinarians. Observe training classes, if you can, before signing up. Frenchies are best trained by positive reinforcement methods.
Separation may be your last remaining option. I know an excellent trainer who had to keep her intact females separated throughout their lives. When one was with the family, the other was crated. Keeping your girls intact may mean a lifetime of “crate juggling” for you and your family.
-Hope
