Ask the Frenchie Trainer - Boys Behaving Badly
admin June 29th, 2008
Dear Hope,
We are proud owners of two very handsome male (intact, 2 ½ yrs old) French bulldogs. Max and Maddox are brothers from the same littler and have only been separated once when Maddox underwent eye surgery last year. We have spoiled them rotten and they are very loved by everyone in the household.
The last eight months we have had aggression episodes between them when visitors come, when food is around (people eating snacks) or when by accident one of them is nudged. Max has always been the most dominant but Maddox (the runt) also has a little temper. It all started by them giving each other the eye in an intimidating manner. Once one got too close to comfort the fight began and we had to pick one up and separate them. It has become now more frequent and Max will start by giving Maddox the eye if I get too close to Maddox (or anyone that they wish their attention at the time). He will growl and then charge or he will walk right between Maddox and the person who is close to him! Maddox will fight back. We separate them, one goes to the kitchen and the other normally stays in another room until we think it has passed. Yesterday, it happened twice in about 30 mins and when I tried to spank Max on his bum be went at me. He did not bite but he was really mad at me for telling him off and the spank in his bum. I read today that this is not the right way to correct behaviors so we are in need of some guidance from you since we love them both and we do not wish to separate them.
We really do not want to neuter them but if this is the solution along with training then we are open to it. Any advice you may provide us with is greatly appreciated since they are like our children and we love them dearly. We just want to do what is best for them both.
Hope writes -
I admit that my dogs are also spoiled, indulged, adored and one of the greatest joys of my life. That doesn’t mean they get to run it. As the responsible adult in the family, I get to set the rules and everyone abides by them. Including the dogs.
Aggression is not to be tolerated. Neutering would certainly help your boys regain their equilibrium, as well as help them avoid health problems as they get older. Training is another crucial component in restoring peace to your household.
I do know some people who play “puppy shuffle” because their dogs won’t get along. I certainly wouldn’t want to live that way and I’m very glad you’re willing to put in the effort to train your boys so it won’t be necessary.
Max and Maddox need to know that you aren’t going to tolerate their aggression. It’s not okay, it’s not cute, and they have to stop. When you see either of them trying to “stare down” the other - get his attention by calling his name, squeaking a toy, saying “cookie” or whatever will work. If nothing else - slam a book down on the floor to get him to look. Praise him - “Good Watch!” and give him a treat. If his attention goes back to his brother - say “eh,” and praise him when he looks back at you.
Teach both of the boys to “leave it.” Without distractions, take one of the boys with you into another room and sit in a chair. Feed him delicious tidbits, saying “take it” as you give him each one. After he learns this wonderful new game (in about 10 seconds), say “Leave it” firmly, and hide the next treat in your hand. He may paw at it, or try to nibble it away. Don’t let him. As soon as his attention leaves your hand, say “Good Leave It!,” and give him a different treat. Repeat this several times, randomizing “take it” and “leave it.” It may take a few sessions to sink in, but it’s well worth it.
Once Max and Maddox know “leave it” you can apply it to every situation; each other, strangers, food, toys, other dogs, etc. You should praise them lavishly for doing as you want.
The other half of the equation is making sure that unacceptable behavior is not rewarded. If attention is what they want - don’t give it to them. Dogs don’t really distinguish between “negative” and “positive” attention - they just know they’re the center of the universe. Turn your back to them or crate them both.
Take back control of your boys. Both of them would benefit from obedience training. Try to find a good class in your area. They are the equivalent of teenagers, looking for ways to get into trouble, with hormones raging. Direct their energy positively and keep them occupied with acceptable activity. If they won’t play nicely - they don’t get to play at all.
-Hope
