Re: JRT and Springer Spaniel dominance issues

In Reply to: JRT and Springer Spaniel dominance issues
Category:   Behavior Problems
Posted by:  Emma
Posted on:  May 14, 2003 at 12:01:10

: I have a 7 year old spayed female JRT who has been an only furkid for the past 4 years (when I adopted her from a shelter). Three weeks ago I adopted a neutered male English Springer Spaniel which I had been fostering. To be honest, I'm getting confused over who is the alpha of the relationship (because whoever is the alpha I want to make sure I reinforce their status). My JRT does all the humping, but the springer seems to be the boss with the exception of the humping (well that and my JRT has claimed the bed). I'd like to reinforce each of their status, but I'm confused to who is the alpha between the two of them. Do I need to just give it more time for them to work it out?

Response:

Hi Emma,

I think 3 weeks is sufficient time for the terrier and the Springer to have worked things out on their own. Unfortunately, I'm as confused as you are because you don't say what the Springer does that you would consider him "to be the boss" or how your JRT reacts when he is bossy. Nor do you say how he reacts when she humps him or his attitude about her claiming the bed.

Reactions are sometimes more telling then actions so I recommend that you consider how both dogs have dealt with the other's behavior as means to determine who is more dominant. In my opinion, the dog who is less tolerant of the other's behavior is the "more" alpha pet.