I have 3 dogs and as usual the big one and the littlest one fight for the alpha position. The middle one is very passive except when it comes to his treats.

We are a blended family (Lab was DH's, Shihtzu#1 was mine and we got Shihtzu#2 when we got engaged.) Everyone gets along great. We have all be living together since 2007.

Just recently, my ShihTzu has been very territorial of ME. When laying on the couch he will lay on me and if my Lab comes over for some attention Sadler will get up and start barking in his face. Same thing will happen when Jackson (lab) jumps up on the couch and again in our bed at night. I feel bad for Jackson! He is so laid back he just goes upstairs and jumps on our bed to be comfy. Lately I've been telling Sadler No and holding him back, letting Jackson up on the couch with us and then Sadler is fine. Its the initial reaction that is bothering me.


I just find it strange that it is happening now and I worry if I'm going to have an issue with him once we have a baby. Any tips on how to correct this behavior other then "no"?

Not sure if ages are an issue but Jackson out lab is 7, Sadler will be 5 next week.

TIA