Looking for a bit of advice

[fast93]

We just adopted a 4 y.o. GSD (Zeus) and am running into a couple of issues.

First off, we are bringing Zeus into a pack that includes another GSD whose name is the same as our new guy. I took my nieces advice and changed the spelling of our new dogs name to Zoose but it doesn't seem to help much (kids are cute).

Here's what they look like.....Zeus on the left...and right



Our original dog responds to a couple of "pet" names that have developed over the last 6 years BUT all of his commands include his name (Zeus sit, Zeus down, etc.). The new dog is very well trained. When he is in our year and off leash, he'll respond to commands from the other side of the yard. As you can imagine when both dogs are out playing getting the attention of one over the other is impossible.

So, I'm wondering if we should try to change our original dogs name or possibly try to change the new dogs name.

My next issue includes what I am seeing as aggressive behavior from my original GSD. He seems to be cutting the new dog off when he approaches one of us in the family. I have been correcting each time it happens but I'm not seeing progress (or understanding) from the original dog. He continues to do it and because of it, the new guy stays away a lot.

They've had a couple of bark and growling encounters with a little nipping but nothing full blown.

Thoughts? And thanks in advance.

[fast93]

One other thing I forgot to mention....the dogs don't seem to interact at all. Don't sniff each other....nothing.

[pyratemom]

I would come up with nicknames so they can tell which one you are directing. Also I do notice how one of mine will cut off the other at times when they are coming to me. I think in my case it is a sibling (not blood siblings) thing because there is rarely any aggression. When that happens I will usually direct my attention to the dog that was cut off instead of the "pushy" one. I put them both in a sit first, giving the nonpushy one attention first and the pushy one attention second so that she realizes being pushy didn't get her anywhere.