How to Train Dogs Not to Fight With Each Other

Raising dogs can prove challenging when the dogs demonstrate aggressive behavior toward one another. In many cases, a dog will fight in order to establish himself as the dominant, or alpha, but you can reduce these behaviors if you have the patience, compassion and diligence to give your dogs the attention and special care that they require. As a dog owner, you will want to nip this problem in the bud as soon as possible.

Instructions

    • 1

      Teach your dogs basic commands like "Sit" and "Stay." You can achieve this by repeating the phrases and offering treats when the dogs perform each action correctly. Most importantly, you will establish yourself as the alpha, reducing your dogs' need to behave competitively. This training will also help you to stop fights after they break out.

    • 2

      Spend time playing with each dog regularly. Do not make the dogs compete for your attention, as this can increase aggressive behaviors.

    • 3

      Monitor your dogs' interactions. If one or more of your dogs begins showing signs of impending aggression, such as growling, tensing or dominant posturing, step in before the fight begins and scold the aggressive dog(s) in a firm manner.

    • 4

      Praise your dogs for good behavior. When you see your dogs playing well together, or when you successfully prevent a fight from breaking out, praise them enthusiastically for getting along. Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement, and will develop new habits and behavior patterns as a result of their owners' approval.

    • 5

      Avoid placing your dogs in competitive situations. Feed your dogs in separate rooms to prevent them from fighting over food, take away any toys that cause them to fight and feed them treats one at a time.