malik – Sep 7, 2012 12:00 AM

Last week, I referenced the fact that I was seeing following behavior which indicates a bit of a hormonal influence stimulating rank order posturing. This week, we see more active dominance with chin rests. Malik is still clearly submissive to Shadow, but you can see Malik's opportunistic side as he lets out a defiant growl or tries to do a direct eye stare. Malik and Shadow's situation is similar to Aidan and Denali. Malik is the opportunist just like Denali. Shadow is somewhat intimidated by strangers just like Aidan. If Shadow or Aidan are intimidated, we can see the potential for the opportunists to take advantage. But, the benefit for Shadow is that there aren't other wolves joining in. Aidan has two pups to deal with that may join in Denali's testing. We will do all we can to keep the wolf yard calm and reduce the stress levels.