The Referee

Kenya understands that her role is to be a referee. She first establishes that she is the boss dog. Then she protects the puppy and all my rules.

Sometimes it is really easy because the other dogs are submissive.

This time she had to have several arguments with Zeke, a five year old male two thirds her size. Once she had had the arguments ... highly vociferous and lots of teeth being shown on both sides ... Kenya established that she was boss ... although she still will not cross certain boundaries with him.

Then Zeke wanted to prove to the puppy, Remi, that he was dominant, so he mounted him. When Remi resisted, he snarled, and Kenya had to become the referee.

This went on all evening.

Zeke seems to be a sweet dog but he is demanding with people (whining all the time and stealing food) and not very good at establishing a rapport with other dogs.

I had been blaming Kenya for the disruptions, but I am realizing as time goes on that she is doing what is natural and normal. She is the dominant dog here. It is her home. And she is bigger than the others. She knows the rules. She understands that Remi is a puppy. She has the right and duty to keep Zeke in line, and she doesn't do it brutally; she is wise.

I have to trust her more.

She is a referee ... and a fair one.