[Dailydrool] Help with fighting bassets?

[Bassetmomof2 at aol.com]

We had similar issues with Ellie attacking Fred for months.  It got so  bad 
we didn't know what to do.  She even bit my husband when he tried  to break it 
up.  We had blood several times.  She became a "red  zone dog".  We had to 
show her that this is unacceptable behavior.   For months we had to be constantly 
vigilant and never leave them alone  together.  She would attack him just for 
breathing the same air.  We  also showed her (and still do) that she is not 
the boss.  Freddie gets  treats first, fed first, up on the bed first, in from 
outside first, etc.  etc.  
 
Nothing in life is free works for us.  They are made to sit for  everything, 
treats, food, walking collar, etc.  We also used a soft muzzle  on her for 10 
minutes as a time out when she would attack.  She would go  into a red zone 
and it would calm her.  The most important thing is to  teach them that they are 
a pack.  We walk them together every day - at a  brisk clip - they are 
working together.  
 
Things have really improved around here.  When she does get cranky  it 
usually means her tummy is upset - she has a history of  gastritis.  She still barks 
through the gate at mealtime but we keep them  separated during meals and it 
works for us.  You'd think she was starved as  a baby.
 
Your girl may be very insecure and has to learn her place.  If we EVER  bring 
Ellie in from outside first she takes that as a sign that she's in charge  
and will go after Freddie.  So Freddie is always first with  everything.
 
I recommend you walk, walk, walk the pack and always put Wallace first when  
giving love, treats, etc. etc.  We also didn't allow Ellie on the bed when  
she was being that way.  She still occasionally tries to take over but is  doing 
much better.   It will take time, lots of consistent  redirection but it does 
work.  Also, they can smell our fear if we  think they may attack, they will. 
 We realized we were part of the problem  with our nervousness.  
 
I'm sure you'll get lots of great advice from seasoned droolers.  I  did and 
it really helped us.
 
Best of luck,
Helene, Freddie and Ellie



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