Aggressive behavior
by Sue
ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
I have three Maltese: Tommie, 15; Caesar, 3; and Cleo, 4 months. I need some help with aggressive behavior on Caesar's part. First of all, he is the most docile dog ever toward people. You could take food out of his mouth and he would never even as much as growl. Wonderful temperment, except for his jealousy toward the other two when I am in the room. Keep in mind that this behavior is ONLY when I am home. If Tommie leaves the room to get a drink of water, Caesar WILL NOT allow him back. If Tommie jumps down off the bed at night to use his papers, Caesar will go after him viciously and not allow him back. He was fine with the new puppy initially, but is now starting this behavior toward her. (and I might add, that he gets love and attention all of the time). We have started him with "time outs" in the powder room (the penalty box), but it calms him down for a little while, but not always. It is to the point now, that I mention penalty box and he goes to the powder room door. Someone told me to try a spray bottle with water; I've tried that, but it doesn't bother him. He is such a special little guy in all other ways and I cherish every moment with him (as with the other 2). He was a liver shunt puppy, but has 100% clean bill of health. Any suggestions?

DISCUSSION:

Yep Sue, Caesar is obviously the alpha dog! The dominant dog should be asserted in it's position by getting everything first. That way there will be no need to bully the other dogs to assert himself. You have to support the heirarchy instead of creating more conflict, which is happening when he is punished! Its the norm because usually the younger one is challenger to the older one's rank. In that case you always support the younger challenger to reinforce his status. So, to prevent the confrontation, pick up Caesar! Dont coddle Tommie! When Caesar doesnt want Tommie back in the room, hold him closer to you calmly and tell him its alright. The challenger gets food first, the best bed, the attention first, walks slightly to the front on-leash and gets groomed first. These things tell him he is number one so he does not have to torment the others. It seems Caesar knows Tommie is getting old and is bidding to take over the alpha animal position. I've had to keep one of mine on-leash most of the time in the house to prevent conflict so I know exactly what you are talking about. Keeping up the training is important also; every day go thru the 'sit' 'sit/stay' 'come' 'down' some tricks, etc. They get NOTHING unless they earn it! :) Remember - YOU are Alpha over all! :)
BeeGee