My dogs fight after adding a new dog. How can I stop dog aggression?

Question

Hi, I have 5 dogs, inc. a 4 yr old Pitbull X Staffie, & in March we got a 9 yr old Pitbull X (not sure with what- she's bigger). They fight here & there. They've escalated & I don't know how to stop it. They'd stop if I shouted at them, but now they don't & when I manage to get them apart the other one comes back. The fights almost always happen when I'm alone, the dogs don't see me as their alpha. What can I do to stop this? I'm scared they are going to fight when no one is home. Thanks. Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed

Bette Isacoff · Accepted Answer

A few thoughts here: first, esteemed PhD level animal biologist Ray Coppinger debunked the "alpha" concept when it comes to dogs several decades ago, but the idea seems to persist for some reason. Second: you should always introduce a new dog to existing members of your canine household on neutral ground. Bringing a "stranger" into your home invites territorial behavior. You don't say how long you've had the newest dog. If it is a short time, they may be working out dominance issues and, as long as no one is getting hurt, this can be okay. Sometimes, there is more noise and posturing than anything really serious going on. Not being there, I can't know for sure. If you are really concerned, or if blood has been drawn, I would ask your vet for a recommendation to a canine behaviorist (NOT the same as a dog trainer!) for help. Good luck with this!

My dogs fight after adding a new dog. How can I stop dog aggression?

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