We are sisters who are having a bit of trouble with aggression. While we love each other and keep each other company when we are left alone, sometimes we get into fights when our owners are around. If our human’s dance, shout, or show excess emotion, we often can start fighting. It starts with a snarl and then we attack each other. Another clue is that we apparently were not that bad until we moved into a new house with a smaller yard. Maybe we are just getting grumpy as we grow older! Do you have a solution that does not involve medicines or pills?. (Shale and Cherry, 7 years, Kelpie cross, Tanja)

Dr Alan

It is hard to be definite without meeting you both, but It may well be that the humans in your “pack” have not yet established sufficient authority to become the “alpha” dog or pack leader. In dog packs females will vie for position which can lead to fighting. It is unlikely that moving to a smaller back-yard can explain your behaviour, neither do I think ageing is an issue. After all, you are still both quite youthful dogs with hopefully, many happy years ahead! A suggestion may be to somehow encourage your owner to take you both to obedience training school. During the training periods you will have fun with other dogs and your owner will pick up some useful tips that will lead to a more harmonious life at home.