My older dog gets aggressive when puppy bothers her food. What to do?

Question

My father and I have 3 dogs, one is an older Black Chow/Shepherd mix, the other is a Beagle mutt and a pure bred rat terrier. The beagle is still a puppy and likes to antagonize our older dog whenever she goes to eat. So in return our older dog gets aggressive, which I understand but my father seems to think it's a huge issue. She's never aggressive in any other form, not to other animals or humans. I can even just stick my hand in her food bowl while she is eating and just mess around. Should I. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 20 lbs

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

You're right that food-related aggression is a normal behavior if the puppy is bothering your other dog while she eats, but it's not something that we want to continue - there is a risk that she may hurt the puppy, and she may also become increasingly aggressive and nervous about being disturbed while eating. I would recommend separating her from the puppy when you are feeding her (ideally in a separate room with the door closed, or by putting the puppy in a crate), then picking up the food bowl when she's finished to avoid any problems.

My older dog gets aggressive when puppy bothers her food. What to do?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

Share