Breaking in a new puppy with a old puppy

Question
We have a 10 month cocker spaniel female and just got an 8 week old golden retriever female.  Last night was our first nightwith both.  Our cocker is very happy and loves everyone--I've never heard her growl.  They play fine but our cocker wants to constantly ride the golden retriever.  Before we got the new puppy she would often try to mount my leg.  How can we change this behavior?  What would you recommend for sleeping arrangements?  We tried it together last night but that certainly didn't work well.  Thank you.

Answer
It sounds like your 10 month old has a strong dominance drive.  Expect trouble as the new puppy matures if it does too.  Two dominate females in the same house can be a big problem.  I would spay her at once if not already, then take over as leader.  The key to most behavior problems is approaching things using the dog's natural instincts.  Dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog.  Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones.  You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class. A good obedience class or book is about you being top dog, not about rewarding standard commands with a treat. Start at http://www.dogsbestfriend.com/  For more on being top dog, see http://www.dogbreedinfo.com./topdogrules.htm

I would suggest separate crates.