Help! My Dogs Can’t Seem to Get Along! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Dear Dr. Paola,
I am the owner of two male long-haired chihuahuas (Walter and Tripp). They are litter mates. I got Tripp when he was 8 weeks old and about a year later I got Walter, who had been given to someone else but that person had been neglecting and abusing him so my friend took him back and asked if I could take him. It’s been 2 years now and he’s a very sweet dog, but the problem is, my two dogs fight constantly, growling at each other and sometimes they fight, biting and growling. They really seem to hate each other. I can’t pick up one without the other trying to attack him. Is there something that I can do to stop this behavior? They only fight with each other they don’t fight with other dogs. I live in a household with four other dogs of different shapes and sizes from a smaller Chihuahua to a large Doberman Pinscher and they get along with all of them except each other. Help please” – Wanda
Quick Info about Walter and Tripp
Wanda, it sounds like Walter and Tripp’s fights are due to unresolved tension, likely due to competition, resource guarding, and Walter’s past trauma. Since you have clearly identified that they get along with other dogs but not each other, their relationship dynamic is the core issue. To prevent fights, avoid situations where they feel the need to compete—such as picking one up in front of the other, petting one, or even speaking and watching one while not the other.
You can use baby gates or crates when necessary to create a safe space. It is crucial to focus on reinforcing calm behavior with high-value rewards that are offered simultaneously. Structured activities like parallel walks, feeding simultaneously but at a safe distance, and controlled play can help rebuild their tolerance for each other.
Your training should focus on impulse control and reinforcing neutrality. Teaching cues like “leave it” and “place” will give them alternatives to reacting aggressively. Ensure they receive attention only when both are calm to prevent jealousy. Since their aggression is specific to each other, professional guidance from a behaviorist may help if the fights persist. With consistency and structure, they can learn to coexist more peacefully, and if you consistently get it right, eventually get along.