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12 week old American Bulldog questions

11:58:45

Question
hi - we have just gotten an American Bulldog puppy named Brody.  We got him at 8 weeks old (he already sat on command when we got him) He is very comfortable in his crate and lays in there when he wants to sleep.  He is almost fully house broken. When he chews, I tap him on the head and tell him "no" and he listens immediately.  The owners worked alot with the puppies.  We also have a 9 month old Yorkie-Poo. Both are males. I have some questions after reading some things; I was hoping you could answer.
1.  He is being fed Purina Pro-Plan puppy food.  We live in a small town in PA and don't have close resources that sell some of maybe the better brands of food.  Any suggestions?  We want him to be the happiest, healthiest he can be.
2.  I've read about being "pack leaders".  He walks well on a leash with me, however, if the Yorkie-Poo is along he leads - I almost can't keep up with him.  Is this ok?
3.  Right now there are no food aggression problems with either dogs.  American Bulldog wins, but the Yorkie-Poo doesn't seem to mind, I feed him in his kennel alone while we are gone.  Is that ok?
4.  Our Yorkie-poo and he do what I thing is playing, sometimes a little growling is involved when they play tug-of-war, however, neither one yelps or seems to hurt eachother.  Should I try to stop them?
5. Is it bad that both are males?  They are never alone with eachother.
Sorry to leave you with so many questions, any answers would be helpful
Thank you very much.  Stacy

Answer
Hi Stacy - Well the Pro Plan is ok - If you can get to a pet store I would refer you to a few others that are much better.
Also, please put him on some Salmon oil - pure salmon oil - just 1 tablespoon per day / mix into his food.
YOU can find this at a pet store or a health food store:
Also, you can order on-line thru many Pet stores...

Next, feeding in his crate is fine, but he will need to poop within 30 minutes???? of eating.

Also, two males can be fine together.  You just have to make sure they are not both Alphas....Also, make sure at least one or the two are neutered.

Ok, the behavior questions - Walking/ pulling / please go here and ask our Behavior / Training experts.
Ask Jill / Canine Behavior Expert:
http://www.allexperts.com/ep/3553-89503/Canine-Behavior/Jill-Connor-Ph-D.htm

BEST Wishes

Marie Peppers LPN MA