Originally posted by lovemyshiba
Clara--
I think I may order that book anyway, it looks interesting!!
Thanks for the link!!

Anway, I believe Abbey may be the troublemaker. She just went after Riley a little bit ago, and no one fights with little Riley--they just don't.

I think I will schedule a checkup for her, just to rule out anything medical, as well.
A check up is a good idea, although Abbey is probably just feeling like if she doesn't rule everyone with an iron fist, she'll lose her position and become the lowest ranking dog in the pack.

IMO they should never be allowed to work it out on their own. As you stated there will inevitably be vet bills, but the main reason for me is that I am the alpha. What I say goes. I say no fighting, so no fighting. I think it's always best to treat the first female as the alpha if they haven't yet established that themselves. In our house, no one ever has attempted to challenge Ankeo. She's obviously the Queen bee, but she defers to me, the Alpha. Hardly anyone defers to Michael.

You've already been given the best advice that I have to offer; see a behaviorist. In the words of Barney Fife,"Nip it, nip it in the bud"!