Harley got in a big fight!! But why...(long)

[Tulsa-Dan]

Originally posted by harley'smama
That's what I don't get though, they have played in the country before with no fights, but I guess Buddy considers it HIS territory.

Yes, dogs take most any place they frequent as their territory. If you walk your dogs around the same block(s) every day on their exercise walks, the dog perceives those blocks as his territory. Also, if you go to the same park all the time, the dogs will then take the park as their territory as well. Some dogs are more possessive about their territories than others as well. It depends on the dog, their socialization experiences, etc., etc. Lots of factors.

And Deb is right, toys and bones are "special" unlike general meal time. A toy or bone is a MAJOR PRIZE for a dog and they become pretty possessive over it. It isn't like toys are for humans, where we can play with them and then forget about them. To dogs, its a major trophy or reward that is THEIRS and only THEIRS. It has much greater significance to them than to us.

So, as Deb suggested, when toys and bones are involved keep a very close eye. I don't take toys with us to the park anymore because I found that it often caused jealousy problems among the dogs. Its easier to let them play with each other and find other outlets rather than play with toys which can cause possessiveness and problems.