Are these puppies playing or fighting?

#Middlebury #Puppies

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My friend and I each have a new puppy, and we try to get together once a week to socialize them. One thing that worries me is my puppy, Tex, and my friend’s puppy, Geno, sniff each other and then almost immediately start fighting. Is this normal behavior? – New Puppy Mom in Chicago

DEAR PUPPY MOM: There are some clear signals that dogs (and puppies) instinctively make to indicate whether they’re play-fighting or actually fighting. Check these out, courtesy of the American Kennel Club.

Play-fighting:

• They’ll approach each other with open mouths that are relaxed or even seem like a grin.
• One or both puppies will initiate play with a little “bow” – front paws out and shoulders down, and back end up in the air. They may hop around a little and repeat this move or act silly.
• Continuous snarling and growling.
• Taking turns chasing each other, wrestling or falling down on their backs to expose their bellies.
• Continual fighting and playing.

Actual fighting:

• Stiff bodies; a grown dog’s hackles (the hair on his upper back) may stand up. Ears pinned back, a threatened dog will get very tense.
• Closed mouth and a curled lip.
• A low, warning growl.
• A fight that doesn’t last very long, with one dog running away, tail tucked.
• Puppies often will simply tuck their tail and leave the area without engaging.

If your puppies are just play-fighting, everything is good, and they’re getting along fine. Avoid jealousy-based disagreements by keeping toys out of the area and not giving food or treats until after the play session.

Send your tips, questions and comments to ask@pawscorner.com.

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