Thank you for getting back to me. I wish the shelter had given you some better information on introducing two dogs. Bringing two adult females into a home together in this way almost guarantees trouble. We cannot call what Chloe is doing aggression. She is naturally going to be protective of you and your family, and her territory. Bringing a new dog into an older dog's household isn't a good way to introduce them. The best way is on neutral territory - a fenced yard belonging to a neighbor or a friend would be great. The two visits at the shelter were a good start, but were not enough. It often takes take several long visits before they'll be friends.

But you now have both dogs in your home, so we'll have to figure out a way to make the best of it. If possible, begin by confining Bella to separate room, with a door or doggy gate to keep her there. Let the dogs get accustomed through the door. Every so often, put some of Chloe's favorite treats in your pockets and walk past where Bella is. When she sees Bella, in a cheery voice, say something like, "Oh, look, there's Bella. What fun! Have a treat." You want her to associate Bella with good things. If she growls, ignore it, but don't give her a treat until she's not growling. Don't share the treats with the Bella - that will just make Chloe more possessive of her treats. Let your Chloe be in control of going over to sniff the Bella, etc. Don't force her to do anything. Once they become friends, she may still growl at him from time to time. By taking things slowly, and helping Chloe associate Bella with good things happening, there's an excellent chance the two dogs will become friends. Once you let them share the house, don't interfere with their interactions unless someone is actually getting hurt. It's best to let the dogs settle things on their own. If serious fighting occurs, you will have to intervene, of course.

There is also a product you may want to try. It contains calming pheromones, and is called Comfort Zone. The pheromones are natural substances which have effects on animals. Comfort Zone is available as a spray, a collar, or a plug-in diffuser. The diffuser would be longer-acting, and better for your situation. Many people who have used it have reported good results. However, the pheromones alone won’t do the trick. You’ll have to use them along with the measures described above. Pheromones may make it a little easier.You can read more here:

http://petcomfortzone.com/comfortzone_dap.htm


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Anna

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Chloe should continue her regular routine.

As for the situation with your daughter, for now at least, it would be best if she does continue to pet both at once, or if she takes Bella where Chloe can't see her to play with her. Taking her for walks would be a good way to do this. You don't want to set up situations where Chloe is likely to go after Bella. They will occur naturally from time to time, but avoid them when possible.

Anna