shiba and vizsla not getting along

Question
So, I have two Shiba Inus (one is 11 female, and the other 3 male) about a week ago we got a 4 month old female Vizsla puppy. They got along at first but now the male wont stop attacking the vizsla. How do we get the male to not attack her? He is friendly with her infront of us but behind closed doors it is a different story.

Answer
Hi there,

Your male Shiba Inu should be separated from the Vizsla when you aren't able to supervise. This can be done with a dog crate, or with a child gate or two.

You didn't say if these attacks are aggressive, or is your male dog attempting to mount the Vizsla? If it's the later, the only thing that will improve the situation would be to have your male dog neutered.

While your male dog adjusts (which can take a month longer) keep him on his leash when he's in the house. The moment he takes a step towards the Vizsla, or even look like he's thinking about going after her, give his leash a tug, tell him "NO!" and make him sit. The instant he complies, offer praise. Prevention is the key.

It is important to support the dominant dog in your household, even if that turns out to be the newcomer. This may mean, for example, allowing the dominant dog to claim a special toy or favored sleeping spot as his own. Trying to impose your preference for which dog should be dominant can confuse the dogs and create further problems.

If things don't begin go smoothly, contact a professional animal behaviorist. Your vet or a local boarding kennel may be able to recommend one. Besides the stress factor, and the possiblity that one of your dogs could be injured a fight, the longer the problem continues, the harder it can be to resolve. Punishment won't work, and could make things worse. Most conflicts between dogs in the same family can be resolved with professional guidance.

Best of luck,

Patti