My two rat terriers fight over me!

Question
We adopted two rat terriers from the ASPCA in December. They are said to be litter mates, their previous owners were "breeders" but did not have the time to care for them. Rascal and Toby are the best dogs I've ever owned, they are sweet and happy and all too willing to please! But they are now fighting over me. Toby will growl and bark at Rascal when he is on my lap, and Rascal does the same. They fight over "prime position" when we nap too. They are both about a year old.

I am unsure how to handle their jealousies. Instinctively I scold the growler. I try my best to provide attention equally, but that is also getting hard as I have 3 human kids to care for as well, and oh yea, a husband too!!!

Thanks for your time, I'll appreciate any advice!!

Answer
Hello You sound like your doing the best you can, the other option is to not let either on your lap but one each side so there isnt fighting over the lap spot you can try keep them off your lap by crossing your legs when you first sit down after there settled and quite you can uncross your legs and expect them to stay put. Make sure they both have there own space ie two beds or two crates or both. Making sure they have there own food bowls and eat if different areas at feeding time will pervent fights also. Telling the growling dog no and ignoring him is a good idea dont say no then start petting him its reenforcing the behavier. This is about all I can offer my dogs are jelus but never jelus enough to start fights over me so I wish I could help more but my experiacne with this is low.