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I got a female bichon 3 weeks ago from a rescue group. My Itchie, a male terrier mix is good with her except for toys.
He will share me, his bed, anything but toys. She was timid at first (but improving). He takes everything away from her. Should I just let them work it out?
Asked by
Itchie
on Oct 17th 2008
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in Adoption & Rescue
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- This question is closed.
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You shouldn't let them work it out themselves. Thats allowing him to set a rule and if it works in his favor it could escalate to his bed, his food or you. If the toy is just laying around, its up for grabs. If she's playing with it, he can't take it from her. Keep a small spray bottle of water close by and you will have to put some attention towards them when she has a toy. If he moves to take it from her, step between them and a small mist of water will let him know that it is not acceptable. Don't douse him or squirt him in the eye... just a startling mist to get his attention. You are setting the behavior guideline... not him. But remember he was here first. When you get home, greet him first. Giving treats? Give him his first. This will reassure him of his status in the family heirarchy without letting him set any rules.
Hurricane Boo answered on Oct 17th.
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Answers
Hurricane Boo is dead on with their advice. We use the bottle of misting water technique with our pitties... They play very much, and with Nino being 2 years and Mocha 9 months you can imagine! Nino is the older dog, here 1st, that plus being bigger, makes him challenge Mocha for toys and treats. The behavior has to be corrected for all in the home to be happy. And as Hurricane Boo said, it could escalate to other items and you. Most importantly, what your dogs should "get", is the toys, the treats, the beds and everything in the domain are yours as you are the alpha dog or leader of the pack. You give the treats and you taketh away...This establishes you as leader. It may be difficult at first but they will understand as this is the natural order of things (so to speak).
I encourage you to train your cuties a "drop it" or "leave it" command with their toys. Allowing you to step in and take the toy whenever you feel necessary. Let me know if you want to know how.
Nino
answered on 10/18/08.
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