dog problems.

[chellg22]

hi there my names michelle i have 4 dogs three of them are yorkshire terriers and the other is a staffordshire bull terrier the staffie is a ***** called coco i've had here since she was 9 wks shes now 6 i've had 2 of the yorkies 11 and 12 years they are too ******* aswell they are mother and daughter and the other one is a male the problem is the staffie seem to turn on the 2 yorkies she has never turned on them untill about 3 years ago but she only does it once maybe twice a year they all sleep together and they all get on great i just dont know why she has just started to because shes been with them since she was 9 wks old so i was just wondering if you could help me or give me a reason why she could be doing it.

                   hope to hear from you soon michelle.

[chellg22]

hi thanks for your reply the 2 yorkies have  had  there tubes tied but the staffie does'nt i was going to let her have a litter but she wont stand and shes nearly seven i would like to get her dressed but a couple of years ago when i had her at the vet he said not to get her dresses until she has a litter of pups but a think i might just have to do i will do anything to keep her but my  mum said the next time it happens she has to go i've had to many chances with her but it breaks my heart thats my baby but thanks anyway.

[Aleda M Cheng, D.V.M., C.V.A]

Are all of your dogs intact (not spayed and neutered)?  If they are not spayed do you notice that the aggression occurs as a result of any of them being in season (estrus), or in the hormonally elevated times before or after estrus?  This would be sexual aggression.  If this is the case spaying will probably help.

If they are already spayed than the problem is probably due to territorial aggression.  It is important for you to monitor times when the problem occurs and try to anticipate when it will happen again.  Than you will have to intercede, by separation, or when it begins to occur by correction. The best correction is one that will get the pit bull's attention and stop the aggression immediately.  Rattling a can of pennies, blowing a whistle, spraying water in her face, or using a loud air horn, etc.    If these methods don't work, please consult your veterinarian, who may be able to give you some medication for your pit bull which will help to control the aggression, or you may have to consult with a professional dog trainer.