dogs that dont get on

[butter1]

I am having to move into my dads house whilst my property that I'm buying is being finish, which hopefully should be in 3 weeks.  The things is, I have a dog and so does my dad.  Their dog is a male staffordshire bull terrier and mine is a female x-terrier.  Our dogs don't get on, although they are both loving my dog will start on my dads for no reason and my dads dog will fight back .  In the past they have had 3 big fights.  I have no where else to stay so my dads is the only option.  I'm just worried when I'm not there.  We are going to separate them whilst we are at work but how can i ease the situation whilst they are in the same room together?  Has anyone got any suggestions?  Thanks.

[andy hughes]

This is difficult. Dogs are territorial by nature, male dogs more than females, and bull terriers more than most other breeds.

The fights occure because your dad's dog sees his territory invaded, which technically it is, and will make his prescence felt. Your dog will defend herself, hence, the fighting, which is unlikely to cease in the timescale involved.

If you were moving in permanently, you would have the option of ltetting them sort out who is going to be 'top dog', which they would, eventually.

Given the short time span,. I would be inclined to look at putting your dog in kennels, or boarding her with friends. It's unfair on your dad's dog, and your dad, to cause this disruption, when the situation is temporary, and will only add to the disruption caused by your temporary addition to their domestic set-up.

Hope this is a suitable alternative.

[kick3m0n]

I would have to agree with Andy, kennelling or placing them with someone you trust would be better than risking them in the same house together. It is only for a matter of a few weeks after all.  If either one got seriously injured in a fight, it would be awful for everyone concerned.  Good luck.

[mary2005]

seems obvious put your dog in kennels for the three weeks

[butter1]

Kennels are an obvious answer but the kennel around where I live the kennels are �14 per day - which will be rather expensive for 3 weeks.  All my friends either have small children or cats so that is not an option.  My dad's dog will not attack my dog unless provoked.  During Christmas when I went to stay for 4 days they were fine... it's just on some occasions things turn nasty for some reason, either with toys, food etc.  I think I will try hiding everything that might provoke a fight and see how it goes for the first week.  Thank you for your suggestions.

[shalforette]

Try taking your dog out for a walk and meet your dad and his dog on neutral ground. If territory is not involved they may get on. Do this a few times and your dads dog might invite your dog in. If it is on their terms they are much more likely to accept each other.

[josaphine32]

Buy a dog cage they are not very expencive and then you can guarantee no damage to either dog...