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Originally Posted by SABELLESMOM  Just got off a thread where this very thing was discussed. (read: JemarsSerena's thread in "behavior") It's natural for him to grumble even if he's crated while eating. Why? The other dog is loose. Beau is voicing his displeasure. You can correct Beau with an "UH-AH!" or "No." or a "OK, knock it off Mr. Silly Pants. He's not even after your food."
Since Sam is not even interested. I'd continue to leave him out while Beau eats. Is Beau's crate open at the time? It's pretty unlikely he'd leave his food to do more than warn, from the sound of your explaination.
There is a year between them. With your guidance, and fairness, I'm sure you can do this. Beau will be making sure he's top dog between the 2 of them. It's expected. Chows are lovely, and Sam sounds calm and confident.
It's probable Beau will be the dominant one, but let it develop under your watchful eye. You will become aware of subtle changes, I'm sure. See something you din't like? Stop it. Simply don't tolerate rude behavior towards each other, if you see it.
I would not allow Beau under any circumstances to push down on him and air mount. It is purely dominant behavior and may not be appreciated after time. It's "too pushy." He does not need to resort to it. Are either of them neutered? |
He kennel door was leaned shut, but not locked. And he doesn't step away from the food, he just growls and eats it really fast. Beau is a generally a good listener and will stop the bad behavior as soon as I say no.
At this point, Sam doesn't even seem the slightest bit interested in trying to become the top dog, so I definately think this is a positive thing.
(The whole story behind Sam is we went to the Shelter to get a puppy, but decided to go with an older dog that wasn't in its cute cuddly stage because he would be less likely to get adopted out. He has ended up being a wonderful dog who deserves to have a forever home. He is sweet and loving, hasn't tried to chew anything up, and actually, to our suprise, was housebroken!)
Yes, both of them are neutered. Beau was neutered @ 6 months and I'm not sure when Sam was neutured, he came home with us from the shelter like that.
Beau's actions remind me of a bratty little only child instead of a mean aggressive dog. Regardless of the situation, we are planning to work through it. Beau has been a wonderful dog the 2 1/2 years I've had him, but Sam is a wonderful dog as well and deserves a loving home. I know we can work it out. Patience is a virtue.