how can i make sure my puppy doesnt get mean or aggressive?

Question

he and our cat love to "play", which turns into fighting...is this harmful?

Answer 1

Different animals have different levels of playing. Watch for signs in the cat, like tail, swishing, ears back, and hissing. Watch for signs in the dog like baring the teeth, excessive panting, and hair standing up on the back. If either looks genuinely upset, you can't let it go on, because you will have one or both animals stressed all the time. Definitely stop it if there has been any injury, especially if your dog is large; a larger dog can snap a cat's neck without meaning to. I wouldn't let them play without supervision.

Answer 2

Depending on the breed, it can be harmful. If it is a typically aggressive breed that has a high prey drive, I would not allow true fighting between them (nor with any other pet). If it is play fighting, I would carefully monitor their behavior. If it's play fighting in a typically non-aggressive breed, I would say it's just that, play fighting. I would make sure your dog knows that the cat is ultimately higher in the pack, and make sure that the dog never "wins" the fights. Even if you have to become involved and break the "fight" up, as alpha. Again, alot of it depends on your dog and their prey drive/inherent aggression. Also, making sure your dog has other outlets for his energy, ie long walks, play sessions with other dogs, "jobs" such as agility, schutzhund work, obedience work, etc. These other activities will make sure your dog has taken most of his energy out somewhere else and is not taking out pent up energy, frustration and anything else on the cat. There is no reason though, with monitoring, that you cannot allow them to play.

Answer 3

First a lot depends on his genetic background and you know nothing about that. That is why getting a pit bull or mix from someone other than a reputable breeder, who has been selectively breeding for temperament for many years, is such a gamble. If he comes from a line of dog-aggressive pit bulls you will have a very difficult time changing him. Take him to Puppy Kindergarten with an experienced trainer. Follow up with basic obedience classes when he is old enough. If you see any signs of aggression toward other dogs or other animals, go to an animal behaviorist.

Answer 4

This is very normal for them to play but if you are concerned just make sure to seperate them after a few minutes of play. Some dogs & cats can become friends (like my dog & cats) but you can't "make" them be friends so you'll just have to accept whatever relationship develops with them. Also, be sure not to love on the cat too much in front of the puppy... petting is fine... just don't over do it because dogs are more aggressive when they get jealous.

Answer 5

I think it is okay. But if your puppy will grow into a big dog it may hurt the cat. My friend's dog usually doesn't realize how big it is and knocks me down sometimes when he jumps up. I'm not a expert on dogs, mostly large ones, but I think a small tap on the head, not to hurt it but enough so it gets the point, should get it off. If the fights get bad than you should scold your pets. I honestly don't know what to do if the fighting gets worse or the bad fighting continues (sorry!)

Answer 6

Teach him games like fetch and tug a war and reward him with positive responses and treats. (I've taught my puppy to drop the toy and sit before I will pick it up and throw it.) If your puppy becomes too aggressive discontinue the play and turn away from him. He and the cat will work out their play time and fighting on their own. Cats are pretty smart and won't tolerate much.

Answer 7

No, pups play rough with their littermates. He is probably play fighting with the cat like he would his littermates. To assure a happy, well-adjusted non-aggressive pup enroll him in puppy kindergarten. He will learn basic obedience but also socialization with other dogs and their owners and you will learn how to work with your dog. I currently have my 5 month old pup in puppy kindergarten and when she completes it I plan to enroll her in more advanced obedience classes. Besides the obedience lessons learned the socialization lessons are invaluable and serve to make a less aggressive pup and adult dog.

Answer 8

Definitely supervise their interaction, since you already have concerns. I have 2 dogs. One is medium, one is small, and guess which is the alpha? Uh yup. And I'd rather the smaller one be more aggressive than the larger. More balanced. But even the little one gets in trouble when she gets "bytchy", and I have to call her butt on it. What REALLY is the deal-clincher? LOOOOTS of affection and praise.

Answer 9

Your puppy probably isn't going to become a problem dog: If he were, the cat would avoid him.

But now is a good time to start teaching your dog what is and isn't allowed.

Good luck!

Answer 10

Go with him to training courses. Puppy kindergarden is a wonderful class for both dog and owner.