Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
An Orange cat eating from a bowl filled with mixed food
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By just two weeks old, puppies are typically happily wrestling with their litter mates. While it might just look like fur balls having fun, this early play is critical to a puppy's social development. Dogs playing together from such a young age teaches them communication and self-control. After all, if you bite one of your litter mates too hard he won't play with you anymore.
As puppies age and grow, they don't lose their playful spirit. Give your dog the opportunity to make four-legged friends, but be vigilant. It's up to you to supervise and make sure your pup is enjoying good-natured play and isn't getting too aggressive with other dogs.
Here are a few signals dogs use to show other pups they're ready to play:
When does a line get crossed between play fighting and a dog actually exhibiting aggressive behavior?
Signs of dog aggression include raised hackles, stiffness, snapping, or lunging. If either dog shows aggression, separate them immediately. But be careful: Never get between two fighting dogs.
Dogs can also become territorial, whether it's toward a place, food, a toy or a person. If you notice one of your dogs becoming territorial over something any time another dog comes around it, it is best to separate them before aggressive behaviors begin. Then, work with an obedience trainer to try and get to the bottom of this behavior and train it out of him. This can often happen when introducing a new dog into the house with an older one. The older one is not used to having to share his toys or your love, so it might take a little extra training on your end to get him used to the idea of sharing his home.
If you have a dog that is aggressive, it simply might be best for you to avoid situations that may cause your dog to fight. But if you have had a dog that has shown signs of aggression in the past, you should be on alert for his whole life. A relapse can occur at any point. Consult your veterinarian if this behavior is regular. You might also need to consult a behavior trainer that can train your dog the right and wrong ways to act if you are struggling to train him to play nice.
The most important thing you can do to keep your dog from becoming fearful or aggressive toward other dogs is to start socialization early. By regularly meeting and interacting with other dogs, you may lessen the chance that he'll react negatively to other dogs as he ages. Get started by taking an obedience class with your dog, which will give him regular interaction with other puppies. You can also meet new canine pals on walks, by setting up play dates with neighbors, or visiting a dog park. Make sure your dog is comfortable in these situations. You might not be helping your dog become more comfortable around other animals if he's scared or is bullied by another dog. Keep interactions positive and don't push your dog into a situation that he's not comfortable.
Sometimes dogs can play too much and get too riled up. When the roughhousing gets too intense, separate them so no one gets hurt. Giving them something to chew on can distract the dogs from each other. Also, consider separating them briefly. Put them in "timeout" by ordering them to lay down for a few minutes. If that doesn't work, simply separating the dogs by a door for 10 minutes or so might get them to calm down when they're reunited.
Watching happy dogs at play is a joy and something to be encouraged. Do your best to find ways to let your dog interact with other dogs at least on a weekly basis. Even if they don't engage in play, and just sniff each other, it is helpful for their development and a good way to encourage good behavior.
Kara Murphy is a freelance writer and pet parent who lives in Erie, Pa. She has a goldendoodle named Maddie.
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
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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.