When we first got the puppy he would pretty much have his way with her with nipping and trying to stand on her and the like. My wife and I didn't interfere and I was hoping she'd give him a good wop but that never happened.
She would just play bite back and this would go on for a while. That's been the story up until last month. These attacks never happen when they're already fighting.
It's like this, we're watching TV, the female is on one side, the male puppy on the other. One of us makes a move to pet the male puppy or he slightly shifts his weight and she attacks, literally launching her self at him. Everything goes pretty fast after that. One of us probably says "No Saffron!" (her name) or something like that when it happens.
We never interfered when they were tumbling around on each other biting and chasing each other. But I guess I'm afraid this new behavior is too violent.
Second question:
I guess together we might of been doting on the puppy more. The female is kind of a daddy's girl and prefers to spend time around me. And I'm sure I give her more attention. But during the day when I'm at work my wife might be giving the puppy more attention because, well.., he's a cute little puppy. She also feeds them and I'm not sure how she orders them.
So I guess the wife and I need to be better about respecting the female's status?
Are you all on the couch at this point?
Sounds possessive and jealous, of either you, or the couch, or both. She should be stopped from that behavior. She can rule the pup. But she needs to know she doesn't own the couch. You do. It's a fine line, when there's multiple levels of dominance being determined all at the same time.
Since she's a real sensitive soul, a spray bottle or a sharp word is probably enough. Instantly. Don't egg her on though... don't pet the pup without petting her. Maybe don't let him be up there if she's there.
But I guess I'm afraid this new behavior is too violent.
Only you been there, but if there's only now been a small scratch, I'd say it's likely mostly noise.
So I guess the wife and I need to be better about respecting the female's status?
You both need to be aware of what's going on in the pecking order, because right now it's under debate. Whichever comes out on top... yeah, respect it...
The female has spent over a year being alpha and with all the attention that the pup has gotten she has been disrespected.
The pup needs to be put in his place.
She is trying to teach him the rules.
Alpha dog chooses the best place, the first food, the first pat, the first out the door.
If you don't follow the rules, she will make sure the pup knows them.
If you want to dote on the puppy then do it when she is outdoors.