Health & WellbeingWe have added a new member to our pack. Willie is a 2 year old male weimaraner. He and Lucy our 10 year old female Weimaraner mix keep getting into little scuffles. Leia is our 5 year old female Weimaraner and she seems like she is avoiding Willie.
Pack dynamics aren't really a thing with dogs, (it's a construct of wolves kept in captivity) so it may be that they are still in the "settling in" period, especially since you didn't mention how long ago you added in the third dog.
Adding in a new pet can be stressful for even the most socialized and well-behaved of dogs, and as they try to determine what the new dog is like it may lead to scuffles. If they become upset, agitated or try to get away from each other, separating them all for a while in a time out and letting them relax before reintroduction can help. Removing items of contention such as toys, bones, treats, bedding, etc can also help to reduce any fights over these items. Pheromone diffusers placed in the house can also help reduce tension between new pets.
Dogs are also very good communicators, so if one of your dogs hackles or growls, it's a sign that it is time for a time out period. You shouldn't scold or reprimand your dog for this, as that can lead to behaviors
Updated on August 12th, 2025
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