Anyone have issues with thier dogs fighting?

That is a really tough situation. I went through it with 2 female Springers. (Don't let anyone tell you that females don't fight!) I thought that having 2 dogs of the same breed and even the same family would mean little chance of fighting, but I was very wrong. Because the girls were so alike, they would fight to try to figure out who really was dominant. Even though one of your males is smaller, he may still be vying for dominance, as size is not as important as attitude in the dog world. Are you aware of which dog initiates the fights? If it is always the same dog, you might try to treat him as the alpha dog (second to you, of course). That would mean feeding him first, giving him first choice of sleeping spots, the best bones, etc. Sometimes that makes the dogs understand who is alpha and the fighting stops. Establishing yourself as the alpha is very important, as another person posted. When you pin the dog down, you are telling him, in the same way another dog would, that you are alpha. I even took it to the point of growling and baring my teeth to the dog, which my kids thought was hysterical, but it worked. One thing you should NOT do is to yell at the dogs or hit them. That would discredit you as an alpha in their eyes, because a true alpha doesn't make noise---he acts. And he doesn't strike another dog because he's secure in his position. All of this theory is great, but I know how terrible it is to see your dogs fight and if it doesn't work, you have to keep them apart unsupervised. I know that's a pain, too. My Springers would howl for each other at night, but if I let them be together, I might wake up to a bloody dog fight. Most of the time they were very affectionate with each other, but a tiny spec of food, or the place next to me on the couch could cause a terribal fight. One suggestion I have is to read Caesar Milan's book, "Caesar's Way". He's a dog trainer/behavioralist seen on Animal Planet. You could also try to find a dog vet who is a behavioralist in your area. They take extensive information and observe the dogs and teach you what to do. They're not cheap, but if it works it's worth it. Good luck to you!

Dogs fight to install superiority. If your dogs don't stop when you tell them, grab the instigator and pin her on her/his back by the throat, yes! By the throat! This lets the dog know you are master, and tell it "No fighting"! Hold him there for a minute, then let him go. He will be chastened. You need to do this immediately any time you see them fighting too badly.

Male dogs will get aggressive, as female dogs don't usually. You may just have to separate them, if they fight like that. If you are not home, do not leave them together. I am so sorry for the pain your dog has gone though.

Sounds like you have two alpha males. Unfortunately neutering them doesn't always solve the problem.

i have a newfoundlander who isnt spayed and a wolfhound terrier mix who is half the size and fixed. they have had some good scraps over the years and they usually fight because they are vying for my or my husbands attention. i used to work 60 hours a week away from home and my hubby is gone a lot so they were fighting for the attention.. since i have been home alot more there has been no fights. that or the higher archy of the dogs senority (their place in the pack) is being compromised. it could have to do with their ages, weaknesses, or strengths...hope this helps.

Good Job. Altering your animals comes first, but you are right, doesn't always stop fighting and dominant behaviors. Here is a suggestion: Buy 2 or three spray bottles to leave in various areas of the house. Put two tablespoons of White or Apple Ciger Vinegar in each bottle and fill the rest with water. When you notice the dogs are getting a little too wild or actually start to tussle, spray them in the face with the water. I mean in face, while giving a firm "NO". The vinegar will be diluted enough to cause no harm, however, they hate the smell of it and getting sprayed altogether isn't pleasant. I have had 12 Siberian Huskies in my at once, and believe me, there is no getting in between a fight between them. You need to train them that you in fact (much to their dismay), are the boss, and you take control of the situation. One good squirt in eye works wonders, I PROMISE!!!!

i hate dog fighting...i hate seeing dogs being vicious. i know some people will say it is natural, but should two animals be made to ripp each other arrpart? NO

this is due to un equal distribuation of any thing

Did the dogs start fighting when you were around or were they on their own? Fights tend to occur when people are around due to jealousy. Also, with 4 dogs, do they all have their own place in your yard that they can retreat to for their personal space. In this situation it is hard to give one dog attention, and even if you are petting both, one may lash out. Separation when interacting with these two may be required. Prevention is better than cure.