Teasle has been with us for 2 weeks now and is settling in well. She's gained confidence and the boys aren't constantly at her the whole time now but Rusty has been much naughtier and I'm not sure if its a new phase for his age - he's just hit 20 months, the arrival of a bitch, the arrival of another competitor for my affection or just coincidence - would welcome some thoughts: Running off towards other dogs and not coming back playing up on the lead suddenly scared of the front gate I'm trying hard to ensure no one gets singled out for extra attention which is easier said than done when Teasle's sole desire is to be on my lap 24 hours a day!
Re: coincidence or spaniel induced? Oh dear Carole : Sounds a bit like attention seeking , a bit like a toddler playing up when a new baby arrives , any attention being better than none, not that I am suggesting that he isnt getting attention, but he is having to share and is objecting in the only way he knows how . How to fix , I think just give him a bit of extra fuss, ignore the bad and praise up the good , I`m sure he will bee fine and its just a blip , sorry not to be more helpful x
Re: coincidence or spaniel induced? I agree, I dont think that's a coincidence. Sounds like your Rusty is wanting your attention, and may also be feeling like he's the alpha male, with a female around... Perhaps some extra cuddles for him (when he's being good, of course!), and a bit less attention for Teasle??? Just a suggestion... I know it cant be easy having a foster dog around. Especially such a cute one...
Re: coincidence or spaniel induced? I think Kate & Karen are right, a bit of attention seeking. It's quite hard to be even handed. Have you tried giving them some one-to-one without the others around? Not easy or possible I know but it's helped my girls when we've been preoccupied with the stupid hound. It might help strengthen the bond with Rusty and make him more amenable and give Teasle some more confidence and a bit less clingy. Good luck.
Re: coincidence or spaniel induced? thanks everyone it's kind of what I thought but wanted to sound you all out. I'm making a point of taking Rusty out for some retrieving which is our 1-1 time, Barney gets to spend a couple of hours with me in my office on his own which he loves - and Teasle gets to go on socialising outings on her own. Fussing all 3 with only two hands first thing in the morning is the real challenge.
