Q: My boyfriend and I are thinking of getting married and the only thing that seems to hold us back are the dogs. He has two Akitas--male and female--both about 5 years old. The female is the alpha. Most of the time they get along wonderfully, except for once or twice a year they hook up and he can't get them apart.
I have a very submissive, female German Shepherd and a male--alpha--Miniature Dachshund. Mine get along wonderfully with people, each other and other dogs. His get along well with other people but not with other dogs. He is afraid if the four get together, that the dachshund will end up as lunch. He thinks the Akitas will obviously dominate my Shepherd and she will be miserable.
Any tips or hints on where or when they should meet? I am a volunteer instructor at our dog club for puppies and beginners, but have yet to come across this one. None of the other instructors have experienced this either.
Q: This is a complex and dangerous situation. I would get a dog trainer or behavior specialist on the scene to help you decide what to do. I doubt you will be able to integrate all four dogs as a family. It's more likely you will have to keep them separated, because your boyfriend's intuitions about what will happen are probably right. An in-person expert can give you a much better evaluation than anyone could online. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage!