My older dog is submissive to the younger. Is this normal behavior?

Question

my dog sammy has been not so aggressive but in my older dog Sasha’s (12 years old) face and pushing her and like making her move and she keeps putting her head down sitting while he is standing over her. Is she being submissive to him and if so how do I fix this because she is the older dog and I don’t want her to be at the bottom of the pack. Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 95 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is a normal healthy response by Sasha. What you do not want is her fighting Sammy. This is the natural way, it isn't always the older dog who gets to be the dominant dog in the house. Sammy is reaching social and behavioral maturity at 2 years old and this is a typical time for this to happen. I wouldn't wish for the opposite of Sasha not accepting him as dominant and causing a dog fight. Treat both dogs equally with treats, food and affection. I wish you the best

My older dog is submissive to the younger. Is this normal behavior?

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