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How to stop my small unneutered dog fighting my big German Shepherd?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 13 lbs

Why is my dad's little dog always starting fights with my 80lb German shepherd Zeus. He is always trying to fight him and Zeus will fight back. Neither are fixed how can I stop this before Zeus hurts him. He is always growling at Zeus and he won't back down. Zeus stands over him and fights back. Is it because they are not fixed or that they are both still pups and squirrel is trying to be the boss.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 26th, 2018

That's a hard question to answer. I guess my first thought is, are you sure it's fighting vs playing? I would recommend taking a video and showing it to your veterinarian (or an animal behaviorist). If they are fighting, it can be due to anxiety, aggression issues, pain, or even just one of them being a bit of a bully. I would recommend separating them so Squirrel doesn't get accidentally hurt and working with a behaviorist to get to the bottom of the cause. https://avsab.org/resources/behavior-consultant-near-you-2/

Getting them neutered will not instantly stop fighting, but having them intact certainly doesn't help. So consider having that done while you're waiting for your behavior appointment.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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