Hey Im alex just wanted to know if you want to chat and also if you get a minute you can really help me by doing this 5min survay. Thank you

http://FreeOnlineSurveys.com/start.asp?sid=ilepqacw8uqsrrp407125

Hi Chris, the fact that Marty is not well could be part of the problem, he could have had the abcess for sometime before you noticing he had a problem. Dogs don't like showing they are ill as it makes them vulnerable to attack. The problem you have though is that Ben will not back down if attacked but fight back. Wait a while til Marty is feeling better and the chemical castration works to see if it is a problem that can be resolved. Under no circumstances let them fight it out, that solves nothing and harps back to the old dominance theory (doesn't work I tried it when I had terriers and it isn't pleasant to watch). I don't know what food you feed but try using one without any artificial ingredients and make sure they get plenty of exercise, Poodles are a very active breed regardless of size, mine have approximately 2 hours a day!
If push comes to shove then I would recommend rehoming Ben, you wont resent Marty but you will be doing the best for you, the dogs and your circumstances and you will make the right decision.
However, fingers crossed things may well settle down now. Good Luck!

Hi Chris, Welcome to PetStreet. We'd love to hear more about you and Marty. Any comments about the site and what you would like to see on it are appreciated.