Problem with babysitting a dog?

Question

Okay, well this might be a bit long, so I'll shorten it as much as possible.

I have 2 chihuahua x foxy puppies ( bella and jasper ), and a friend of mine has their sister ( shiloh ) They're all girls, and bella and jasper don't see shiloh very often. But, at the moment, I'm looking after Shiloh while my friend is on holidays. The problem is, Jasper severely dislikes Shiloh, and snaps at her whenever Shiloh comes near her. At first, Shiloh thought it was all in fun, but now she's getting violent too. Jasper is about half Shiloh's size, and I'm worried she will get hurt. Shiloh has even had a go at me when she's fighting, which my puppies never do.

Should I keep them separated, or do something else? I have Shiloh for almost another week.

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

It would be best to keep them seperated

Answer 2

DONT separate them, your only building aggression between them if they are separated. Step in and be the master, clap your hands, make a sharp noise when Jasper starts acting all bossy and mean. Get Jasper to step back, make it clear to Jasper and Shiloh  that you will not tolerate their behavior be firm but not mean. They will catch on, then they will all be buddys as long as you stop the unwanted behavior. Good Luck..remember that you have to watch them and make sure they are being good sister pups to each other.

Answer 3

It'd be a good idea to keep them separated. Next time you want to watch Shiloh while your friend is on vacation, see if you can just keep Shiloh at your friends house and take care of her there.

Answer 4

I would keep the dogs separate while you are not with them, and make sure they have toys and whatnot to keep occupied.  When you are with all of them, you may be able to let them play and if it gets too rough tell them sternly "UH UH" or "NO" and separate them before it gets too rough.  When they play nice, praise them.  If they are getting out of hand, separate them into different rooms again.

If you observe the early warning signs of puppy tantrums or snapping, you might be able to help with their socialization this way.  Be careful about treats as praise for playing nice (socializing well) because many dogs will fight over food.  You don't want to make the problem worse while you're trying to help!

Answer 5

I would say so.I have chihuahuas and they think they are bigger than they are and bark at big dogs and they are protective and the sweetest little girls Ive ever had in my life.I am watching a dog right now and I wont let them near my precious chihuahuas.Good luck