The Walking Club

My two dogs fight over my attention. What can I do?

Fights need care. Keep them safe, look at what sets them off, and ask a professional if it repeats.
2 min read·Field notes

Short answer: if your dogs have fought, keep them apart when you cannot supervise and get help early. A fight can look sudden but often follows signals that are easy to miss.

Why it happens

VCA says dogs often signal very subtly, so early messages may be overlooked until a physical fight. It says fighting between dogs in the same home often starts when the younger dog matures, between one and three years. It also says fear, anxiety and frustration can show up at social maturity.

Safe steps

Keep them apart, with gates or separate rooms, when you cannot watch, because a fight can start without warning. See two dogs fighting at home and growling over dinner.

What attention does

Watch for the moments that start trouble, such as you coming home or sitting down, and plan for them. The AKC notes that scientists are still debating what jealousy means for dogs, so focus on what you can see.

Get the right help

If your dogs have hurt each other, see your vet, then a qualified behavior professional.

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RelatedWhat Should I Do if My Dogs Fight at Home?
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