 Help! I think my dog is trying to dominate me
love Cocker Spaniels. I have had them for about 7 years now. I just rescued a black mature female from the Humaine Society with such a sad story that even the strongest willed person gets choked up when telling it. She has some interaction issues with my oldest Cocker who is queen of the house. That I think I can handle, but after some research I have discovered that our new addition (Ebony the black cocker) is actually not being cute, but she is trying to dominate me (Maybe).
Here are some of her strange, yet visually cute, actions.
1. She is not affectionate in the for of licking, occasionally she will cuddle and moan, that is it.
2. She will climb up on your chest (Regularly) with her paws at your chin, and when you talk to her affectionately she will aggressively paw at your face and just stare you down.
3. When you discipline any other dog in the house, verbally, or a swat she will attack whichever dog you are trying to stop from doing whatever it is you were addressing, effectively 'taking over' the alpha duties.
4. She constantly trys to dominate all the dogs in the house (We now have three including Ebony) whenever they are having fun.
I confess I find it hard to discipline her, as she has had a really rough history before coming to my home to become part of my family. I knew that taking her in, and knew several people tried to adopt her before me. But, I will not give up no matter what. A dog is for life, not just for Christmas and I am reaching out to this forum for help in helping her adjust to our home as easily as possible. | 
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