[Dailydrool] dominant

[Cblatz]

Right on Dan,  Maggie has been the dominant one in the family for 8 years.  Every dog that came after her learned their "Maggie Manners" quickly.  As long as she feels secure she is fine.  If one of the "wannabees" sense some weakness we have squabbles.  Maggie eats first and gets treats first.
However, if I have to go out, the "wannabees" are put in their crates.  The dogs who are happy in their lower status are left out with Maggie.

When this litter of Dachsi puppies were younger the other bassets were very tolerant.  Now that they are 6 months old the other 2 bassets are setting limits on their behavior.

Maggie, though, has never been tolerant of these little ones.  I think she has had her fill of pups.  We are starting to let one out at a time with Maggie.

They have to learn to give Maggie her space.  It is just that the size and weight difference is so great that Maggie doesn't even have to try to hurt one to do damage.   So we are taking it slow.

I find it quite interesting watching pack dynamics and learning to respect the dogs and also learn when to step in.

They can teach us so much with their subtle body language.

Cathy
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