Dutch Shepherd Forum

My previous two dogs engaged in very brief sessions of play. That is, they would paw each other, chase each other, rub muzzles, etc., but only for short bursts of about 10 seconds or so then go off and do their own thing.

Radar and Leela can go on an on for quite some time, but one activity that scares me is that they both like to get each other around the neck. Radar is at least twice Leela's size, and at some instances, he seemingly could rip her throat out in a split second - so far, there has been no injury.

It's funny to watch Radar "flop" to the ground like a soccer player, basketball player, or a football kicker when Leela barely gets a hold of the back of his neck. Of course, she then goes right for his throat.

One of the things that has worked for me to keep the play fair, is to get Radar to find his ball or stick. With something in his mouth, he's not so dominant in the play.

I guess the question is really what are the signs that the play has gone too far, and what are some of the best techniques to bring them both back to calm if I perceive enough is enough?

Finally, I know I have been a little over active on the site lately, and I hope no one is actually getting sick of me yet. I REALLY appreciate all the kind words and advice from everyone here.

I am certainly no expert on the matter, but my general rule of thumb is - are they both having fun?

I just yell "enough" with my dogs when I want them to settle down and they both stop. There is nothing wrong with telling the dogs to stop if you feel they are going too far or getting over excited. The ball in mouth is great!

Do they stop and take short breaks then go back to it?
Is one dominating the other while one is trying to get away?
Are they trying to see who is top dog and its more of a challenge between them?

They are new to each other and it will take some time...but do what you feel you are comfortable with as far as allowing the play they engage in and how rough they get, and stopping what you don't like. Follow your gut.

My two aussies, always wrestled very hard and did the neck grab and shake and do it for hours. They traded off and loved it. Often people would glare at me or be surprised because they thought they were really fighting and they never were. Very hard players. Tygo, my 6 month ds also plays very very hard and mouthing everything is part of it.

I would give them breaks and teach them to stop if you are worried and it will give you the information you need as to the meaning.

Karin

I ditto Sue. My girls will play so rough all day, yes ALL day ! They grab neck, ears, leg, tail anything. I do say "enough" and calm them down and make them take a break. So far, the play has never gotten beyond play, they do sound like they are fighting but ill watch them and its all good.