Kingdom of Pets

Posted by kylenix
Jan 13, 2009

I have an 8 month old golden retriever. She is almost a nice and friendly dog with humans. However, when she meets other dogs, in particular, dogs with the same size or larger, she always submits, laying down and even turning belly up. This happens every time. no exception. This results in that other dogs do not like playing with her. It is a bit embarrassing each time we take her to dog parks.
She does not show any submissive behavior to humans, but rather a bit over excited when seeing strangers, which we are working on and it has gotten better.

Posted by KOPsBecks
Jan 14, 2009

I'd say rather a submissive dog than an aggressive one ANY DAY! You want a dog thats not going to challenge other dogs. If she is given time to form relationships with other dogs does she play with them well? I'd say this is not a concern, more of a blessing! Does she act scared at all? Or just happily submissive?

Posted by kylenix
Jan 14, 2009

Thanks Becks.
Yes, I would like to have a submissive dog than an aggressive one.
Since she was 5 month old, we bring her to an unleashed dog park once a week. about one hour each time. She does show scared when seeing other medium to large dogs by hiding tails between legs, pulling ears backwards, showing a coward expression, etc. This does not change after one hour's staying. Her tails are always between legs when other dogs approach her within 2 meters.
Basically, after the initial 5 mins, all other dogs play themselves leaving my GR alone. And she is not trying to join others at all.
I will keep bringing her to the park and see whether things will change some day.

Posted by MaxHollyNoah
Jan 15, 2009

Hi kylenix and KOPsBecks,

I agree with both of you that you would rather have a submissive dog than an aggressive one. I think your dog needs more socialization so it is good that you are regularly taking her to the dog park. As she sees same dogs day after day I think she will get used to them and start playing with them!

Another thing I would like to recommand is a puppy class. It will be beneficial for your puppy to learn basic obedience and also it can be a very good opportunity for socialization and building confidence.

There is never too much socialization so pls take an advantage of it!

Good luck

My GR always submits to other dogs