Aurie,

Thanks for the advice. I am keeping Rocco intact primarily because I heard that at this age neutering will have limited impact on his behavior. When I mentioned aggression, I meant that he has been aggressive with strangers (people) and small animals, but not other dogs. He has never bitten anyone, as his aggression flares primarily when he feels protective or when there is a stranger in the home, never outside the home.

He generally behaves in an aloof manner with other dogs, paying little/no attention to them. He is very akita-like in that way.

Dorothy39,
Thanks for the welcome!

I am taking note of all the suggestions and I believe I will begin a more rigid schedule of training/exercise for both dogs. My wife will also have to be involved.

Gino