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Fighting Brothers

19 15:57:59

Question
I have two 18 month old male Boxers.  They are from the same litter and for the most part are perfect angels.  But, at least once every two weeks they get into these horrible fights.  I am considering giving one up due to the damage they are causing to each other an myself, when I attempt to separate them.  I love them both very much an giving one up is a last resort.  Is there any other option out there for me?

Answer
The good news is yes, there is hope for your two males.  However, you need to take a deeper look into the situation.  Dogs don't just fight for no reason.  When a fight starts, whether it be a fight from the past or one that has not happened yet, take notice of everything.  What seemed to trigger the fight?  Was it one trying to hump or dominate the other?  Was it over a toy?  Food?  If you watch your surroundings you can pin point what could possibly be triggering this attack.  If it had turned out to be a toy, than you know not to keep toys out in your house unless you are playing with them in a controlled situation.

Your males are also reaching the age where they mature, and some aggression is normal but can get out of hand if not properly handles.  My oldest male, right before he reached two years became aggressive to all the male fosters that entered our household.  We immediately started socialization training and he is no longer aggressive.

Have your boxers every been trained?  Even if they have, i suggest training them.  Boxers are very high energy dogs and need physical exercise as well as mental stimulation.