playing problems

[kriseliz]

I have had my french bulldog (Boris) since January, and he has been getting along very well with my other two female dogs, at least up until around a week ago. He had a rawhide, which I guess he felt that my oldest female dog was trying to steal it, so he picked a little fight with her. It ended quickly and without incident, and about a week went by with no more problems. Last night, I wasn't home, but my doggie babysitter told me that these same two were playing and again, they got into a little tiff, but this time there was no special toy involved.
I would not worry if their sizes/strengths weren't so unmatched but they are. My FB boy is 23ish lbs, and my oldest female is about 65 lbs. I haven't had this happen before, so I feel as if he may be trying to assert some dominance as he moves into his "teen" years. Although he definitely will not get the top spot, not even with an all out fight.
Whats the best course of action here? I have already started separating them when they have their most coveted treats...rawhides, etc. I dont want to end up in a situation where these two always have to be separated, I think thats just the most unfair situation.
Does anyone else have a male and a female that do this with each other from time to time?
any help would be appreciated-
Kristen

[kriseliz]

When a male and a female get into a fight it is not so serieus as when two males and especially two females get in a fight. When two females fight it can be lethal.

What you can do is make them understand that you are the one who has everything under control and that it is not up to them to determine who gets what and when. Treats, rawhides and other things that are important to them are yours, not theirs. Let them sit and wait when you give it to them and when you think they have had enough put it away again. I can recommend NILIF (Nothing In Life Is Free) On the following link you can find more information about this program http://k9deb.com/nilif.htm

When you create a situation when they see you as ultimate and fair leader, it will create a bond between them. Don't show any preferences, give them their treats, toys etc at the same time.

This worked with Mo, she has it in her to be quite possesive, but by using this approach, I have been able to reduce it to a minimum

Roosje

thanks for the quick response. i have noticed that boris is extremely needy of attention, jumping up on my lap, wanting to sleep practically on top of me ... sometimes he just perches on my lap like a lookout. its just lately that he's been getting a little more possessive. i will try your suggestions and see how it goes. i hate to have to be more strict with them, because i love watching them have fun together without things being complicated, but i would rather this way than have constant bickering.
thank you again,
kristen