Daschund and Lab

Question
Hello,
We just picked up our 8 week old, male yellow lab today and have a five month old female miniature daschund at home, Charlie(Lab) and Dixie(Daschund) are constantly fighting and it is hard to tell whether it is playful or aggressive fighting. We introduced them by bringing Charlie in holding him and letting Dixie having free reign of the house. We let Dixie sniff Charlie, and took them into the back yard to romp around. They immediately started fighting, well, Dixie at least. Charlie was tired and wanted nothing to do with Dixie, but now he is starting to fight back after his rest. Do you believe it is just the matter of time or something more? Any suggestions are appreciated.

Thank you very much,
Sean

Answer
Dear Sean,
Thanks for the question. Introducing a new dog into the house can be stressful for both dogs (and the family!)

Of course dogs do play rough and they may be playing. Puppies under 12 weeks old have what we call a "puppy license" in the dog world. That means that most normal older dogs tolerate the puppies' lack of experience in play and do not hurt them. The older dogs will correct them but not usually do any physical harm.

To determine if the dogs are playing nicely look for these signs-
1) they take turns at "being on top" one will be on top of the other and then they will switch up and trade places. In other words they take turns. One will be submissive and one the aggressor, then they switch roles. This is normal dog play.

2) Neither of them is hiding or desperately trying to get away from the other. If Charlie is constantly hiding behind you or getting his whole body real low to the ground whenever Dixie heads his way, he might be truly scared. On the other hand if Charlie keeps going back for more, he is probably having doggie fun!

3) look for play "bows". if either dog has his or her rear end up and his or her front feet and head are down, that is an invitation for play. The dog that bows is saying, "Hey, let's play!".  

Of course Dixie is still a puppy and may not quite know how to act. The main thing to do now is to not let Dixie bully Charlie. If he is truly trying to avoid her, then you should step in. Don't punish Dixie (or Charlie) for playing too rough, just separate them whenever they get too rough and give them a break.  

Happy Training!
AT