Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have two purebred Dalmatians, Female with Black spots and a Male with liver spots.

The Male is becoming mean, absolutely fine with me, seems to leave well enough alone and no real trouble in general. We moved about 3 months ago to spot in which they have more area to run in but a change just the same. He is peeing down stairs from time to time..never catch him so I do not punish him after the fact, water bottle to the face keeps him away when attention is not wanted. Overall a good dog but he has developed aggression towards my wife...not all the time...if she hugs him or stands over him from behind and pets him he growls.

I love my dogs..this really bothers me and any advice would be great. I am fine with making him the basement dog with only access to upstairs when I am home...all in all he is fine just being alone down stairs...unlike the female he requires little attention, although if you are giving it he will sit next to you for hours by simply putting your finger on his head.

He is about 6.5 yrs old, healthy, weights about 79pds stands about 3 feet.

He needs a medical checkup. Pain could well be the problem.

The water spray isn't a good idea. Get into a good training class with him--include your wife so she will learn to be comfortable handling him--and I'll bet you can work through this.

Also avoid giving the dogs food or treats that they might compete over. Even if you don't see competition, just don't take the chance. It's much easier never to let it start in the first place. It's the main and sometimes the only reason a male and female will fight.
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Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series articles at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=1&SourceID=47