Answers (3) |
You bought it from an irresponsible breeder. First off you CAN'T separate dogs from their moms until they're minimum 8 weeks. He is probably scared of them because he either has separation anxiety or he's not use to the dog Four weeks is far too early to take a dog from it's mom unless there are extenuating circumstances which necessitate it. This was a disservice to the puppy, and to you. But since this is the situation you need to realize that Brex simply didn't have the opportunity to be properly socialized with other dogs. He may always have a fear of them but maybe you can minimize the issue, mainly with slow and consistent to exposure. The longer he is isolated from Carter to potty, etc., the longer it'll take to correct things. Hold Brex and 'hang out' near and with Carter, even if Brex is nervous and shakes the whole time. Giving them both treats at the same time and petting them together may gradually show Brex that Carter is a 'good guy' and he has nothing to fear. Occasionally there are dogs who just naturally dislike other dogs, but if you are to have a multiple-dog household you need to at least establish a reasonable solution if for no other reason than to make your life easier. I have seven dogs, all different mixes and sizes, and they all had adjustment issues at first as we adopted most of them as young adults (except for our Chiweenie who was and is a puppy), but with time and patience we basically found a way for all to live in relative peace. If all else fails, ask your vet to recommend a pet behavior specialist who might be able to help with only a few lessons and/or advice. Good luck, and bless you for rescuing Carter. Judy Brex will probably adjust to Carter in time (may be a slow process) but if all else fails and he refuses to go potty outside, you can always paper train him to go inside. A bit of a pain, for sure, but lots of people do this with their dogs especially if they live in apartments so it isn't really an unreasonable solution. Good luck. Chiweenies are great dogs - ours is a real spunky love :) |