Aggression over toys with new puppy

[mochasgranny]

We have a new addition to the mix of things. Our new little puppy ( A golden retreiver) has just become part of our family. My 2 year old Maltipoo is dominant with her toys and bones. She becomes very aggressive and mean. Otherwise they play fine. What can I do to get her to share nicely. Please help!

[Maggiesmom1]

I would put away all the old toys--anything the maltipoo has claimed, and gradually add some new toys--but YOU need to claim them as your own. YOU are the one to decide who plays with your toy. You can encourage sharing by playing "my turn" and as you sit with both dogs on the floor, give a toy to one and then take it away in a few minutes and you have a turn, then the next dog gets a turn. They will learn that everyone gets a turn.

Another philosophy---as with parents who have more than one child around the same age--you can buy 2 of the same toys so each dog can play with the toy at the same time and not be jealous. If the maltipoo is mean to the puppy over a toy, take it away and put it up.

I know its like having two small kids---"share your toys kids". As the new puppy grows, it will learn to stand up for itself and hang on to the toy.

[MaxHollyNoah]

Hi mochasgranny,

I agree with Maggiesmom1's suggestion of practicing "my turn".

In the mean time, I would like you to make sure there is a clear pecking order, in which your 2 yr old maltipoo always comes first. This way you will prevent future possible problems, especially your GR will soon be much much bigger than your maltipoo.

YOU, as the leader, should be able to teach them how to share toys/bones as well as they should respect each other's right even when you are not watching. As an example, when your maltipoo is chewing on her bone, your GR should stay away from the bone. Another example is when your GR is still eating his food, your maltipoo should not claim his food even she is done with her, etc. She can only go check your GR's food bowl after he is totally done with his meal. This goes beyond food: getting your attention is another example. When you are petting your maltipoo, your GR should not push her away. He should nicely wait to get your attention, and of course, the other way around too.

Dogs can wait if they know they will get their turn.

Good luck!