{Note from the mun: This is one of two asks that for some reason won’t show up in my inbox unless I view via mobile. Not sure why, but sorry, @miathegeek!}

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As with all unusual behavior, there is always a root cause or reason why a pokémon is acting the way it is. Thus, it’s vital that you first determine why your lucario and zoroark are at odds with each other.

I can assure you, though, that if they got along before now, it’s unlikely to be due to type; many trainers raise pokémon of differing types without much of a problem.

Eliminating that, start by determining what sort of fighting they’re engaging in. There is a difference between sparring and attacking. If your pokémon are sparring, the fighting may be due to any of the following reasons:

1. Your pokémon are acknowledging each other’s strength, and thus, they’ve increased the intensity of their matches to push each other to battle at their full potential.
2. If one is male and the other is female, then the sparring may be a mating ritual. Zoroark and lucario are part of the same egg group, and seeing as yours have known each other for years, they may have grown fond of one another. Lucario in particular are more likely to choose a mate that can hold their own in a match, and many pokémon that wish to choose one as a mate will push themselves to meet this expectation. Thus, lucario and anything wishing to pair with one will engage in heated battles in order to impress their potential mate.
3. They’re bored and using excessive force in their attempts to alleviate this.

If any one of these is the reason why your lucario and zoroark are fighting, it’s important to sit down with them and explain that this is not acceptable behavior. Both species are intelligent, so talking to them is usually sufficient. If it isn’t, it would be a wise idea to obtain a pokémon capable of separating and soothing them. Grass-types equipped with Sweet Scent (which can calm pokémon when used off the field) or a sleep-inducing move may be effective, as are naturally soothing pokémon such as blissey or chimecho. Once calmed, approach your pokémon and explain in a firm but clear tone of voice that they are not to fight.

However, if your pokémon are attacking each other out of anger and spite, the following may be potential reasons:

1. They’ve gotten into a disagreement. To fix this, determine what the disagreement is over, whether it’s food, a potential mate, toys, space, or so forth. Observe both of their behavior carefully and try to see what triggers the battling. Once you find the trigger, immediately separate your pokémon and mediate. Establish that you wish to resolve things peacefully and calmly. If one pokémon has clearly wronged the other, state that that pokémon’s behavior was not right but also state to the other pokémon that retaliating with force is equally unacceptable. Be as firm as possible in establishing that both are in the wrong for different reasons and that you’re not going to be treating one more preferably than the other in this situation, but also propose solutions and ways to resolve the conflict productively.
2. One of your pokémon is taking out its anger on the other, and the other is retaliating. If this is the case, determine the reason for the instigator’s behavior and work to resolve it. It’s best to do this directly, by establishing to your pokémon that you wish to help them. Remember that both lucario and zoroark are intelligent, practically sapient pokémon, but they’re proud at the same time. Be respectful in your approach, and they will respect your attempts to assist them. Alternatively, offer solutions in redirecting their anger. Use them more often in battle or create a sparring space, complete with a sturdy, inanimate object they can strike so they’re less likely to use their teammate as a target.
3. Their territorial instincts are flaring, likely due to the mating season. If this is the case, take the instigator (or both, if both are exhibiting aggression on equal levels) to a breeder to have it (or them) mate with other lucario or zoroark. This will relieve tension and restore peace. Also consider spaying or neutering your pokémon for a more long-term solution. Your Nurse Joy will be able to go over your options if you choose to take that route.
4. They’re bored. If this is the case, again, establish that their behavior is unacceptable but then consider battling to relieve their frustration. If you live near a gym, try contacting your local gym leader to arrange for weekly battles (either with the leader themselves or their gym trainers). If you don’t live near a gym, try to take your pokémon out to find opponents—wild or trained—at least once a week. Alternatively, set up a sparring room for them, as mentioned above.

In any case, the point of the matter is that there are several possible solutions to your dilemma. Determining which one you need to take requires patience and keen observation, but with anything you do, be firm but compassionate to your lucario and zoroark.

Good luck, reader!