Fate is a sweet dog, but she doesn’t care for other dogs, especially females. She isn’t aggressive, and doesn’t ever draw any blood, but she can be hostile and difficult.

Zinnia, like so many Labs, isn’t buying her standoffishness. She challenges her to play and brushes off her indifference. This morning, I saw that Zinnia is beginning to wear down Fate’s resistance, just as Lenore did with the difficult Frieda.

Fate seemed to challenge her to play, then changed her mind. Zinnia didn’t take it personally, she just came right back at her. I love this part of the dog experience seeing how the other dogs react and evolve to a new member of the pack.

Fate sees herself as the dominant leader, and I think it will remain that way. Zinnia is not challenging her authority, and that will settle things down. Dogs need the chance to work these things out. Bud loves Zinnia and the two already hang out together.

I think there will be some made playing in our yard in a few weeks.