males fighting

[melissa]

i recently got a 1 yr old boxer who had been hit by a car and left for dead. I adopted him and he is doing fine, He was neuterd 2 days ago. he is very sweet and does not want to fight. Problem is-my 2 females seeem to like him. OUt male lab want to fight. What measures can i take to try to get them to get along? Help
Melissa

[Brad Buckley, D.V.M.]

Time will be required for all the testosterone to leave his body following the neutering. This will probably help and the male lab will then exert dominance without the fighting. These dogs must be supervised until a "pecking" order is established and watch out specifically during feeding times as food is often the trigger for the skirmishes. Once everyone knows and accepts their place in the pack then things should improve. Remember, if any or all of the dogs are still intact then behavior issues will be worse due to all the hormones. Good luck!