Play-fighting?

A

AG74

New member
We recently got a 9 month old, started GWP from the breeder/trainer. We have a 9 year old Lab who has never been a hunting dog. It took the dogs a few days to get used to each other, now it seems like all they do when together is fairly rough playing/fighting. It usually ends when the Lab gets mad and gets after the GWP and one of us breaks it up. The major problem is, the fighting is relentless and it is driving my wife crazy. Any suggestions on how to stop it? We separate the dogs when we are away. But usually they are ok together in the kennel when we are not present. most of the playing is when we are present. Any ideas? Thanks!
 
If I knew I'd sure tell you!!! We have dog gladiator games in our house everyday, the inside dogs are french britts, brothers, and it is loud, involves running, leaping on and under things, breaks out spontaneously, or whenever your on the phone. These guys are 3. I had two shorthair sisters years ago that were worse! I don't think it ever stops. I had lots of Pointers and Setters which outgrew it, the continental dogs never seem to tire. I hate to crack down because it's part of being a free spirit, but I do resort to "time out" in the indoor dog boxes when it becomes to wild. That seems only to encourage more when released later,but it's the best I can do.
 
Is the lab usually trying to defend you? A lot of times it's a jealousy issue. The lab just has to know that it is okay for GWP to be near you and your wife. Let your wife play with one dog while you praise the other and switch...just a thought. Our labs now play with our GSP and all is well.
 
I think you have to allow some playing because it works out the alpha dog and developes social skills. When I have had enough I break out a squirt bottle and we work on our "leave it" command. Works pretty good.
 
Thanks for the replies guys, and I'll try the squirt bottle, that will probably work very well. I suppose there is a little jealously involved maybe, but it is always the pup that initiates and he has WAAAY more energy than the lab. this wouldnt be a big deal, but the lab is older, slower, and I'm worried she'll get hurt, so I always break it up before it gets out of control. And, its getting old for us humans. If they were both young and energetic and equal physically, i'd just send them in the yard till they were done, but thats not the case. Anyway, I've learned from you guys that this is normal, so i appreciate it!!
 
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