I'm new, and hoping someone can relate to this:
We have a 6 yr old chihuahua/whippet, Oso, that my husband rescued out of a dumpster when he was a puppy. Oso had been thrown away by some rotten owner because he had a broken front leg, and it healed improperly. He still has his leg, but he limps, and rarely uses it. He's an amazingly kind, gentle, loving, obedient, yet fragile dog. He's great with strangers & kids, but hasn't been around other dogs much.
Our new pup, Barley, is a chow mix, and was considered "submissive" by the humane society, which I'm not seeing. But we're working the dominance issues out, and he's started obedience/manners class, but he scares the crap out of Oso. Oso runs and hides under the couch when Barley wants to play. He seems nervous all the time, and wants us to pick him up when Barley is near. We try not to intervene, but Oso ends up in hiding and it's never settled between them. Despite a few growls from Oso, Barley DOES NOT back off until Oso finds a "safe" spot.
We have not interrupted Oso's normal walking/feeding/cuddling schedule. Is there any way to facilitate a better relationship? My dream is that Barley will learn to leave Oso alone and protect him - am I totally disillusioned?
Both dogs are neutered. I'd appreciate any advice!!! Thank you!
We have a 6 yr old chihuahua/whippet, Oso, that my husband rescued out of a dumpster when he was a puppy. Oso had been thrown away by some rotten owner because he had a broken front leg, and it healed improperly. He still has his leg, but he limps, and rarely uses it. He's an amazingly kind, gentle, loving, obedient, yet fragile dog. He's great with strangers & kids, but hasn't been around other dogs much.
Our new pup, Barley, is a chow mix, and was considered "submissive" by the humane society, which I'm not seeing. But we're working the dominance issues out, and he's started obedience/manners class, but he scares the crap out of Oso. Oso runs and hides under the couch when Barley wants to play. He seems nervous all the time, and wants us to pick him up when Barley is near. We try not to intervene, but Oso ends up in hiding and it's never settled between them. Despite a few growls from Oso, Barley DOES NOT back off until Oso finds a "safe" spot.
We have not interrupted Oso's normal walking/feeding/cuddling schedule. Is there any way to facilitate a better relationship? My dream is that Barley will learn to leave Oso alone and protect him - am I totally disillusioned? Both dogs are neutered. I'd appreciate any advice!!! Thank you!
