I have a 3.5 yr old female shepherd mix who was abused (I adopted her at 2 yrs) and a 2 yr old male shep (I adopted at 1 yr). Both are wonderful and have responded well to training except in one area, which despite my years of training experience I am unable to resolve: The female is the dominant dog, being older and here first. But, she bullies the male to the point that when I have to put them in their room/dog door to outdoor run when going away the male is afraid to go in because she is abusive to him. If there's a toy, biscuit, scrap of food, or anything she could possibly possess and call her own, she is ruthless w/growling and defending, to the point where he gets beyond submissive and ends up very nervous and upset. I hate to take away all forms of chewies, entertainment, etc, but she'll guard them all and make him very nervous. I'd like to see him challenge her for his rightful pack status, but he's something of a wimp and so far won't do it. Otherwise, they play together wonderfully, and really seem to enjoy each others company. Any suggestions for how I can help this imminent transition of dominance w/o bloodshed or further damaged nerves?? Thanks. - Liz

Liz, since the Shepherd-mix was abused it's hard to tell how far she'll go in her dominance aggression. Even though the male may be bigger, the hierarchy may remain the same until the female is too old to keep up. If there is no bloodshed, the transition may just take time. Separating them only makes a temporary rest time so they can go at it fresh again and make the female more intent. Watch them and try not to jump in unless a real fight developes. Time will help-the longer they are together the easier the transition will be.

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