Sibling Rivalry

Every morning I make sure to give the boys their CET Enzymatic chews. I turn on the TV and make sure that they have a full bowl of water too. This is my morning work ritual after we have gone on our walk. They truly look forward to receiving the chews and it makes the anxiety of me leaving almost a moot issue. Unfortunately, I have noticed that Buddha's behavior has changed towards his brother. He takes his treats and watches to see where Simba is going with his. I try to keep them separated because I have noticed that Buddha will slyly go up to Simba, steal his chew and hide it under his paw! I was amazed and flabergasted that this silent, kind dog was being a bully. Simba is typically the alpha in the group but he doesn't even go towards Buddha when this happens. He sulks in a corner and looks at me.

When I do see this behavior I immediately correct it but unfortunately I am not there most of the time to see what's going on. Other indications that there is something going on between the two of them are that Buddha pushes Simba out of the way when I come home. He will even go as far as chomping the back of his neck if he is getting too much attention from me or chase him around the house. He doesn't typically hurt Simba but there are moments when Simba will scream.

It disturbs and saddens me because Buddha does not have any aggression or cruelty. He would never bite a person and he is just such a playful, relaxed dog.

Anyone out in the doggy world have any suggestions? I think that I am going to take Buddha back to training. But he is so well behaved with sitting, staying, etc. so I'm not even sure if that will help.

Christmas Bling

These dogs are truly spoiled. My guys received a whole bunch of toys, treats and chews. Coco the tiny Pomeranian is the only girl of the bunch so she naturally received clothing and accessories. Although, since she is a Floridian dog she truly needs warm coats because she will freeze in this Northeast weather without them! Onix is extremely picky with treats so his gifts were squeaky toys. I feel as though the dogs were granted everything that they could ever want from Santa. 

The humans had a fun time opening gifts too but I personally enjoyed handing the gifts out. I didn't need anything this year other than the warmth of the fireplace and my family. I had both of these things this Christmas. I hope that this feeling will carry on through the new year.