Jean Marie Bauhaus
|February 05, 2021
Does your dog not play well with other dogs? Whether at the dog park, at doggy day care or even in your own home, a dog who's mean to other dogs can create stress and havoc. Here's how to tell whether your dog is being a bully and what you can do about it.
Before jumping to the conclusion that your dog is actually bullying other dogs, it's important to understand the difference between a bully and an alpha dog. It's natural for one dog to emerge in a group of dogs as the alpha, or pack leader. Alpha dogs are confident of their position, says Cuteness. They generally don't feel the need to push other dogs around or get bossy or demanding, because other dogs naturally defer to their position in the pack. Although an alpha might correct another dog who steps out of line and violates the dog code, they're generally calm and patient with other dogs.
A bullying dog also differs from an aggressive dog, Cuteness points out. A dog might bully a certain dog who they don't like but may get along fine with other dogs. A bullying dog might pick on a dog who they perceive to be weak or fearful, or might inadvertently bully other dogs by simply being obnoxious and overbearing — often due to overstimulation or because they weren't properly socialized as puppies. When a fight breaks out with a bully dog, it's usually because the other dog has finally had enough. Aggressive dogs, on the other hand, tend to be aggressive toward all dogs and are usually the ones who attack or pick fights.
When assessing whether your dog is has taken to bullying behavior, it's just as important to pay attention to the behavior of the dogs interacting with your pooch. If the other dogs appear to be having fun, then your dog probably isn't being a bully. On the other hand, if any of the dogs appear stressed, fearful or start showing signs of aggression toward your pup, then it's possible your dog is actually bullying and it's time to intervene.
Here are more signs of bullying behavior in dogs:
If you're thinking that your dog is a bully it's important to intervene. Letting bullying continue can be detrimental to both dogs involved. The bullying victim can develop fear and anxiety if exposed to too much bullying. And the longer your dog goes on being a bully, the harder it will be to break the habit. Here are some steps you can take to curtail bullying behavior in your pup:
However, you deal with your dog's bullying, it's important to remember not to touch or get between dogs who are in the middle of a disagreement. If your dog is prone to bullying, it's a good idea to have them wear a harness with a tab or handle that you can grab if necessary to remove them without risk of getting bitten.
Bullying doesn't mean that your dog is hopelessly mean. It simply means they need to learn better social skills. They might also need more exercise or mental stimulation so they don't take out their boredom or excess energy on other dogs. Stepping in, controlling who they play with and modeling better behavior can all help your dog become a better playmate.
Jean Marie Bauhaus is a pet parent, pet blogger, and novelist from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she usually writes under the supervision of a lapful of fur babies.
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Fewer calories for less active large breed dogs
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a large bite size.
Supports lean muscle for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Healthy Cuisine Variety Pack
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day one
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
All About Chondrodystrophic (Short Legged) Dog Breeds
Learn why your new puppy might show signs of aggression & biting, as well as how you can train to him to stop this behavior.
Use this dog washing supply checklist to help you get all the materials needed, making bathing your dog at home a fun and easy experience.
Understand what it means for your female dog to be in heat and what you can do to provide her with the best care.
Learn why dogs roll in poop and other stinky things, what you can do to stop this behavior, and how to clean them up when they do.
Learn reasons why crate training an older dog might be a good idea, as well as an effective method for getting him comfortable and used to his new crate.
Learn more about if female dogs can have periods, when they can happen and a lot more about their estrus cycle.
Learn how to clean dog paws so you can keep them clear of muck and debris and promote paw health. Your pup's paws are made to explore.
Learn about angular limb deformities in dogs, including types of deformities, why they happen and treatment options for dogs that have this condition.
Taking your pup on a road trip? Learn the safest means of traveling with dogs in a car.
Learn the underlying reasons why your dog is vomiting, helping you understand when to be concerned that a larger health issue is at play.
Learn helpful information about yeast infections in dogs (in both ears & skin), including signs of the condition, causes, treatments and prevention tips.
Wondering why your dog's leg kicks when you scratch his belly? Learn about dog scratch reflexes, why they love belly rubs and how it's useful for your vet.
Learn more about dog panting, what's considered normal panting & heavy breathing, and when heavy dog breathing requires medical attention.
Learn how reading & understanding your puppy's body language, barking, and whining can help with his obedience training.
Keep your new puppy in great shape by following our healthy puppy tips, including information about exercise, nutrition, and eating habits.
Learn how to tell if your dog might be too skinny, common reasons why they could be underweight, and tips for getting them to a healthy weight.
Concerned about a heart murmur in dogs? Learn more about what might be causing it and what you can do to help your dog.
Learn how giardia in dogs can wreak havoc on your pet's digestive system, how giardiasis gets diagnosed and how your dog's veterinarian might treat it.
Learn why small dog breeds often live longer than large breeds, including the average life expectancy for each, and tips for helping your dog live longer.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool