Is this how puppies play?
by Shirley
ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
I have two puppies Baxter is 14 month neutered 13 pound Bichon and Bella (maltese)is 9 month 3 pound in tact female (spaying soon) - Bella doesnt like Baxter to take her treats - she sometimes keeps her treat between her paws while he will gobble as many as you give him.If she takes his bone she snarls at him if he tries to take it back. He keeps trying and will paw her head with his eyes blinking - too funny while she snaps at him. - when I bring them in from the back yard Baxter wants to bring her in by her coat if she is wearing it or her harness or by scruff of neck. I keep telling him no but she doesnt really object. They bite each others paws and ears with nary a whimper so I dont think they hurt each other. They run like crazy and play well - she seems to be the boss except for this behaviour. Is this a case of him trying to be dominant and her not letting him. I never had 2 puppies before so dont know if this is normal or whether I should not let him do this - he also wants to be first in the house but he wants her with him therefore the dragging by coat etc. Is this how puppies play?

DISCUSSION:

Archie and Zoe are 10 month old siblings, and have played in the same manner that yours do since we brought them home at 12 weeks of age. They take turns being dominant though. At first we were nervous that they really were fighting, and that one of them would get hurt, but that hasn't proven to be the case. They really love each other as much as they each love us--we all gets LOTS of love!!! I hope that you continue to enjoy yours as much as we do ours.
JudyS