I have 10 week old Springer, Holly and 5 year old Lab, Jessie.  We have had Holly for 2 weeks now, and up until this weekend everything has been lovely.

However, now when I play with Holly when Jessie is asleep, Jessie will wake up and chase (and retrieve) whatever I am throwing for Holly to fetch, then Holly obviously wants it.  So then Holly will jump at Jessies mouth, and Jessie will usually drop the toy.

Then comes the aggression or play, which is where I need your help to decide what it is...

There is a lot of growling, snarling from both of them and a lot of barking from Holly.  The tails are generally still wagging, which is a good sign, but sometimes is seems to go too far, and Jessie really lets rip.  No broken skin so far, but I am wondering whether to let them get on with it, or break it up before it gets going.

Jessie will roll down and lie on her back and let Holly jump all over her, still with the snarling going on from both.  And if Holly moves away, Jessie will follow.

What do you think?  Are they just sorting out their pecking order?

If you haven't had to take anyone to the vets, it sounds as if they are 'just' playing - but beware of letting them sort it out on their own - this is how strong minded puppies get to become bullies towards other dogs :(  If you think it's gone to far - then you tell them 'That's enough!'

hi hollyspringer,  i too have a young springer, 6 months and an older dog gsd cross aged 7. They engage in a lot of this kind of behaviour, mostly good natured. Sometimes however maxie the older dog gets fed up with being pestered and some snarling and growling usually puts a stop to it. I have always tried to make sure that the older one knows she is top dog, she gets fed first, gets treats first, gets greeted first etc. they get on fine, but they dont exactly adore each other! if i feel that the youngster is laying it on a bit thick i will send him to his bed to calm down. I am sure that your dogs will figure it out fine.

Thanks both of you.

I also do what you do Sandra, and feed the older dog first, etc, and I have also been separating Holly when she gets a bit much.  So at least I am on the right lines.

The other thing that worries me is that if I let her play like this at home, is she going to assume she can approach any dog in this way?  She does look quite viscious when her teeth are baring (even in play!)

Would it be better to just stop this play right at the start?

She needs to learn from a variety of other dogs, puppy classes are probably best for this IF well run and play sessions are carefully supervised and managed (if not, then puppies can learn more bad habits than good :( )