jealousy/fighting between 2 male dogs

Question
I have a Bichon Frise and a Westie/Lhasa Apso mix. One is 1-1/2 and the other is almost 1.  The Bichon (Sugar) was acquired first and is clearly the dominant dog. The Westie (Muggs)defers to him in every way, especially dinner time and couch space. However, when i pick one or the other up, they both go berserk and try to attack each other.  I have been scratched and almost bitten while holding one or the other. Sugar will jump up and grab the foot or tail of Muggs and will not quit until he bites something!! Muggs will growl and when i put them both down on the floor, they go at it viciously!!!!  I can no longer show any affection for one or the other any longer, especially Muggs as Sugar is the most aggressive and the most territorial.  I dont know what to do. The violence is escalating and lately, Sugar has started growling at me when i open patio door and tell him to go our for play time in yard. He hates going out back and now shows it with anger!!!  Neither of them are neutered and i know that would help but until then, what can i do?

Answer
Your situation is complex and requires in person evaluation.  Clearly, rank is not as determined between these two as you imagine, and the fact that one is beginning to attempt to control you with aggression (a growl is a bite waiting to happen) is not a good sign.  Whenever dog to human aggression is involved, you need an in person evaluation and treatment by a credentialed behavior expert...NOT a dog trainer with fake credentials issued by some training organization.  Call the veterinary college nearest to you and request a referral.  If this option is not available, call veterinarians in your area and ask for a referral to a behaviorist with educational credentials in Animal Behavior.  PS: Bichon, Westie and Lhasa Apso are all dominant breeds (especially the males).  Determining which one to neuter first depends on educated evaluation of both dogs, separately and together, by someone who knows what s/he is doing.  Do not attempt to cure this problem by neutering; you might be neutering the wrong dog.