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What are the
signs of "dog bullying" and how can
you prevent your dog from being bullied by other
dogs?
There are dogs out there that bully other dogs
when in a "doggie environment", such as a dog
park, dog daycare, or a beach area designated
for dogs and their owners. Often, bullying takes
place in large groups, regardless of the size.
Most of these dog bullies are of the large breed
and prey on smaller dogs, although there are also
smaller breeds with a strong, dominant personality
whom bully on other dogs of all sizes.
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The next time you take your dog to the daycare, the
park, or other places where there are other dogs around,
observe how he behaves toward the other dogs and vice
versa. Find out if your dog is being bullied by other
dogs or if your dog is the one who does the harassing
to other dogs.
Dog bullying comes in many shapes and sizes. You can
tell that your dog is being harassed by other dogs if
he is being surrounded by them, ganging up on him, jumping
at his face, and growling at him, often for no legitimate
reason. Below are other signs of a dog that is being
bullied by other dogs:
1. A dog that is almost always happy around other people
and dogs, but nervous and scared around the "bully"
dogs.
2. One that is repeatedly mounted.
3. One that is continually being chased away from his
toys, water, or certain spots.
4. One that is being attacked, pinned to the ground,
and pushed around.
5. One that is continually being menaced.
6. In worst cases, one that is being bitten or badly
hurt.
These acts are not right and should not be tolerated.
Repeated display of these behaviors are not only hurtful
to your dog in a physical way, but can also be mentally
damaging.
It is important to find out what is causing the harassment
to occur among these dogs and put an end to the improper
behavior. Some dogs are just real bullies, without any
direct reason for acting that way. Keep in mind that
in many cases, it only takes one bully to rev up other
dogs and follow his behavior. In this case, separating
the dog from the playgroup will solve the problem.
Another reason for dog bullying is improper or lack
of supervision from the owner or staff member in the
day care. Dogs that aren't properly watched over tend
to get out of control while playing, and that's when
the bullying starts. Therefore, when you take your dog
to a day care, make sure that there is enough staff
members to supervise all the dogs and that they are
being looked after at all times. And lastly, whether
it is at the park, the beach, or your neighbor's house,
make sure to keep an eye on your dog at all times.
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