so english springers have alpha dog problems?

Question

we have 2 springers, and they got in a tiff today and the vet said they are both alpha females and we need to get rid of one of them. they are both puppies(12 mos and 5 mos) and I don't want to part with either of them.what should I do?

Answer 1

I agree with the first reply. Once dominance is established, they will be okay. A lot of female dogs behave like this, it's not just springers. My Mom's Golden Retriever won't allow another big dog near her, male or female.

Answer 2

I say it's worth a sacond opinion. Talk to a trainer or better, a behaviorist, and have that expert come to observe. There's no substitution for an evaluation like this.
And I don't believe it's an alpha problem with Springers - there are neurological problems that come up as serious aggression/resource guarding with these dogs. That's why it's important to be sure you know what you're dealing with.

Answer 3

i have six dogs(one springer), and from time to time my three females get into scraps. There is no cause for alarm unless the older one is injuring the younger one. Even if they are both alpha females, they should come to an understanding especially if they are both spayed(AND THEY SHOULD BE). if you are really worried i would visit a veterinary behaviourist and im 100%certain they can help you find peace.
but if this is thier first scrap, just relax and favor whoever won, let her eat first, get treats and more affection, to reinforce her being the leader, it may sound unfair but it will help the other dog learn that they arent the boss.

Answer 4

It seems early to be classifying both as alpha's. Yes, being hunting dogs and hyper, springers have a tendency to be alpha, however, let them work it out and see where it goes. One will eventually become dominant and the other submissive. It just seems so early to be talking about separating/getting rid of one.

Answer 5

I would take them to obedience class so they can learn to socialize better. They do have special classes that can help with behavioral problems like this.

Another thing if the dogs have not been altered yet the alpha drive is higher. They may calm down it they are spade.

Answer 6

familiar Symmetrically equipped, compact, strong, merry, energetic. maximum on leg and raciest in construct of all British land Spaniels. features In comparing the English Springer Spaniel, the merely correct photo is a first interest. One ought to seem for form, which includes familiar visual attraction and outline, and also for soundness, which includes stream and temperament. Inasmuch because the dogs with a gentle basic gait should be fairly sound and correctly-balanced, he's to be truly recognized, notwithstanding, no longer to the volume of forgiving him for no longer searching like an English Springer Spaniel. An unusual dogs, too short or lengthy in leg length or overseas in head or expression, would flow properly, yet he's not to be in demand over a strong all-round specimen that has a minor fault in stream. It should be remembered that the English Springer Spaniel is first and most suitable a carrying dogs of the Spaniel kinfolk, and he ought to seem, behave and flow in personality. Temperament the common Springer is pleasant, wanting to delight, quick to benefit and prepared to obey. Such features are conducive to tractability, that's mandatory for ideal handler administration contained in the container. contained in the coach ring, he ought to show poise and attentiveness and allow himself to be examined by technique of the choose without resentment or cringing. Aggression in direction of human beings and aggression in direction of alternative dogs isn't in protecting with carrying dogs personality and purpose and isn't any longer ideal. intense timidity, with due allowance for domestic dogs and newbie shows, is to be both penalized.

Answer 7

Looks like you are in a tough spot! I had the same problem with mine two! I had to get rid of 1 according to the vet, but they grew out of the alha-dog stage, so luckey me!! Try waiting a month, if the figh too much for you to handle, or too vilontley, seperate them or listen to the vet. Remember, vets arn't always right!

Answer 8

I think the breeders need to work on this prob. with Springers. They are beautiful dogs but, I have known too many of them to be vicious with other dogs and in one case attacking a child. I would not have one.

Answer 9

It is pack mentality. Every pack must have a leader. All dogs are instilled with this. You are a member of their pack and you owe it to them to be the alpha. Find a good clicker training class in your area for both of them. We did and it made a world of difference for ours.

Answer 10

Don't believe the hype "Springer Rage" my ESS is a gentleman and my older dog Chow/Lab welcomed the ESS. One thing you might want to try is taking your dogs out in the field and actually doing what they were bred to do. Even if hunting is not your thing. You can train them to retrieve this is what I do w/ my ESS and he loves it. Purebreds have to do what they are bred to do. In this case hunt. Once they become partners in hunting you should not have anymore problems.