Sudden aggression

[MWNORWOOD]

I have a 10 month old Bullmastiff female. Last week we had her spayed. Then today, she started becoming aggressive toward our 12yr old Boston terrier. They haven't been the best of friends but seemed to get along fine until after her spaying. It started with the boston taking one of her treats. I removed the treat and separated the animals. Waited a short while and let them outside together. I am not sure what happened (was so fast) but the mastiff pup had the boston in her mouth and had a really good hold of her. I separated them this time by leaving them in the same room but the mastitis was in her crate (not as punishment) to have some alone time which she took to really well. I wonder if the stress, pain, hormonal issues might be the culprit. Any advice is welcome. Thanks!

 

[DennasMom]

I'd guess she's not feeling 100% and still recovering from surgery. Did they give you pain meds to take home? Does the incision look clean or is it red or hot at all?
We put neosporin on the incision once or twice a day (and then made sure it didn't get licked off immediately) until things healed up solid.

I'd probably keep the pups separated for the most part for now. Bring them together (so they remember they live together, and hopefully like each other) - but only when supervised and in a relaxed situation (no outside playtime together... need time for stitches to heal, too).

Lots of crate time, one-on-one time with you and/or alone time in, say, the bedroom, for her to help her relax and recover in peace might help her, too. I'd probably give her lots of extra stuffed kongs to keep her mind busy, too.
After about the one week mark, Denna needed some exercise, so we did some slow walks around the 'hood - that lifts the spirits, and helps healing (mental & physical), too.

 

[MWNORWOOD]

Thanks! We are keeping her in her crate while the other dog is out for about an hour before bed. Seems to be good for both of them so far. She's acting noticeably better so I think that's helping. The exercise is the thing I've been holding out on until stitches were removed. It might not hurt to do some short walks.

 

[babyjoemurphy]

Just like us we hurt for a few weeks after surgery. We tend to forget because dogs generaly don't show us pain. When they do it is usually bad.
I know after my surgery last year it took me 5 weeks to truly feel better, of course 2 of the weeks where in the hospital. When I got home I just wanted my cuddle bum Murphy and my cell phone. Everyone else move out till Im good again lol

She just might be feeling the same. She might have the "LEAVE me alone" attutude. Now lets be honest........she is a girl lol