We have a border collie/springer mix rescue dog who is now 2 and a half years old and who came to us when she was 7 months old. She was very badly treated as a puppy with almost no socialisation and as a consequence when she came to us she was extremely nervous and afraid of almost everything! We have worked very hard with her, with dog training classes, socialising with other dogs, children etc and she has improved immensely. However, since acquiring a new cocker spaniel puppy who is now 22 weeks old she has regressed so that she is frightened when we go to touch her in certain situations and will submissively urinate. This includes grooming and trying to put her lead on to take her out in the evening (she refuses to go into the garden to pee). The puppy is very laid back and submissive but obviously would love to play with her and jumps at her neck - also will take her toys from her, which she will allow. She warns him but is not aggressive with him. I try not to favour either of them - ignore them when entering a room etc, but I am also concerned that the puppy is not getting the attention he needs as we're so aware of Tess's problems. We have taken him to puppy classes (and taken her with us) and he is very, very good - and very friendly with other dogs. We walk at least once a week with a friend and her labrador, who Tess loves. However, she has absolutely no time for the puppy. It got to the point this week where I felt we couldn't cope with her any more as every time I tried to touch her she bared her teeth. I'm sure it's "sibling" rivalry/jealousy but I don't want the puppy to pick up on her bad habits too!
Have you had your older girl fully vet checked? Behavioural changes are often the first obvious signs of underlying problems - she could be in pain somwhere for example that doesn't manifest itself as a limp.
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