Beagle Behavior with Older Dog

Question
We have had our 4 month male Beagle for 1 week.  We also have two other dogs.  Our Beagle and our 13 year old male Samoyed seem to get along, but frequently get into spats.  They don't seem to want to hurt each other, but they make a lot of noise and sometimes the Beagle just latches on to his fur.  It never seems to go anywhere mostly because we break it up.  Sometimes then the Beagle will growl at one of us.

Is this foresight to aggressive behavior for our Beagle?  My husband thinks the dogs might be posturing?  Is there something we should be doing for this type of behavior?

Thanks!
Misty

Answer
Misty,
Four months of age is about the time when a dog comes to feel the need to establish their position in their pack. Your new puppy is trying to communicate to your older dog that he wishes to be "top dog".
I suggest you allow them to work it out among themselves. In time they will come to reach an agreement. If they become too aggressive, or cause injury then, yes, I suggest you separate them. It may be okay for him to try and establish his place as a higher ranking official, to any other pets in the house, however, he should never be allowed to try and dominate any human family members. There are several ways you can help in curbing this problem before it becomes worse or dangerous.
First, discuss neutering him as soon as possible with your veterinarian. Some veterinarians will perform the surgery at four months and it will help alleviate any future testosterone surges and possible altercations. Also, it is advised that you feed him after all human member of the household have been able to eat.  In a wild pack of wolves like our dog's cousins the wolf; the dominant, (alpha) pack members get first dibs on any kills or meals. By letting him see that you eat first, this subtly communicates to him that you are dominant over him.
Do not allow him to rush doorways. If you take him to do his business or go for a walk, make him last out. On the same token when walking him on a leash do not allow him to pull out ahead of you. Pulling ahead comminutes to him that he is the head of the pack in this position.
Finally, look to enroll him in a local obedience class, or enlist the help of a private trainer. By training him basic commands and reinforcing them you are again establishing your dominant status. If he come to growl at you, or any other family members again than, I suggest you correct him immediately. Do not hit, or strike him, but rather grab him by his collar and give him a firm tug with a "NO" command. Let him know now that this will not be tolerated. Praise him for all acceptable behaviors, and being he only wants to come to please you, we will quickly learn what makes you happy and display these behaviors. I hope this offers some help with you problem. Please feel free to get back to me with any additional questions or concerns.
                                Jodi