Submissive puppy plays well with some dogs and rough with others, is this ok?
My 13 week old Boxer cross has a good temperment, is non-aggressive with us and most other dogs. He has been well socialized with other dogs since we got him (puppy day care, trips to Pet Smart, dogs we meet on walks etc) However, in puppy school he was very jazzed to play at the end of the class and it seemed none of the other dogs were too keen to rough-house with him. So he decided to pick on a small Spaniel and play rather roughly with it, even when the Spaniel submitted he kept him pinned and had a good time keeping him there. Is he showing dominant traits or just looking for a buddy to roughhouse with? Also, the puppy day care people say he plays very well and is welcome back any time. Am I Over-reacting? I think maybe the other pups in class haven't been socialized yet and are a bit shy, as our pup is very outgoing.
No, it's not ok. This dog definitely has to be taught some manners before he picks on a dog his size who resents some dog running up to him and attacks. The other dogs likely are well socialized, they just don't appreciate a rude dog - not all breeds react the same, you know. Boxers are a breed that need to be trained and kept under control. You need to work on it now while he's young because he will get worse if you don't.
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