Bitches are fighting

WE have had two bitches, both spayed, one for five years, aged approx. seven now, and the other for 16 months from the age of four months. They have always got along, and play very well together. 

But out of the blue on Saturday evening, the older one attacked the younger in the house. We got them apart and they did only slight damage to each other (cuts and scratches on the ears). The following day they were very wary of each other, but by Monday everything seemed to have been forgotten and they were playing again. 

However, last night the younger one attacked the older one. We managed to get them apart sooner with no damage done (except for my husband who seems to have come off the worst).

This morning they are playing again. I really don’t know what has happened.  There does not appear to be any warning they just suddenly go for each other. 

Do you have any suggestions?

Susan

Hello Susan. Your problem is common where females are concerned.

As the younger one gets older she will by nature challenge the older one as a matter of hierarchy.

Often the fighting is when someone in the family is present and they become jealous. Shouting only edges them on.

Quite often it is better to rehome one of the dogs otherwise the injuries can become nasty and costly.

I am aware you love them and emotionally it is a killer, I had the exact same problem and rehomed the younger one.

Regards David