I have two adult female dogs (one year, 3 months) that grew up together as puppies. First we got Kahlua when she was 3 mo. old, then Tango when they both were 6 mos. They would play together just fine, go on walks, and go to the dog park. My roommate brought in another dog named Buddy who was already a year old and male. They all got along fine.

When my puppies turned a year old, there was a sudden change. Randomly, Kahlua and Tango would start fighting. It started being more frequent, then more violent. My roommates would break them up, then 5 minutes later, they would start fighting. Kahlua at first was the antagonist, but later we saw that Tango initiated. Then it got to the point were it was difficult to determine who would start the fight. They made eye contact, then a second later, both charged.

About their personalities, Kahlua a sweet dog who has high energy and is at attention. She is afraid of a lot of things, especially on walks. Every time she would see Tango, she would start to shake.

Tango is a very sweet dog as well. She has lower energy, but is a firecracker in short bursts. She loves to go on walks and play. She especially likes attention and getting pet.

How I have analyzed their behavior is no matter who starts the fight, Kahlua is the one afraid and would fight rather than run. Tango is up for the challenge, so wouldn't stand down. I think they are trying to sort out the pecking order, but both won't back down to the other.

Buddy runs around my dogs in circles when they start fighting. I'm sure he's adding on to the problem on some level.

So, we separated them. I know it is not the best method, but I don't know what else to do. They are too big for their crates, having them in the same room as us doesn't help. We tried letting them into the backyard with no people around (to see if they were fighting over attention), but they still fought. However, they both get along great with Buddy.

The most frustrating part about this is we take both dogs on a walk, and they are just fine working together. We often have both leashes in the same hand! When we get them back to the house, a fight starts.

I don't know what to do. Calling a professional is last resort since it is so expensive, but are there suggestions anyone can give me? I am at a loss.

Thank you.

first of all, the obvious - they are ALL neutered yes?

this is not uncommon behavoir for females together - unacceptable, but not uncommon. you need to get this under control before someone gets hurt.

yes, they will have a pecking order but YOU are to be at the top of it. YOU are the alpha. google NILIF to learn how to do that.

I would also recommend some obedience classes asap for all these dogs. you can check with your local shelter to see if they offer any low cost or recommend anyone in particular. before signing up - watch a couple classes to see how the trainer relates to the dogs & the owners

in the meantime - crate & rotate - do not allow them together for any reason