Hello,
Well, our 2 year old and 8 week old English Setters are getting used to each other. At first, Relay, our older one didn't want anything to do with Dash, our puppy. But after just a few days, they were both looking around the house for each other, needing to be in the same room, sleeping near each other, etc. Relay now even takes naps in a pet bed she wasn't very interested in before just because it is next to Dash's crate when she naps. It is very sweet. Also, Relay used to go through her greeting ritual with us each time we got home (this seriously took 5-10 minutes), but now she says a quick hello and then runs to Dash's crate because she wants to see her. So, with getting used to each other, they are also playing. They are definitely playing MOUTH GAMES. Some matches concern me a bit and that is what caused me to write this post. My husband says they are just playing and I think they are too. But, it looks so rough! Sometimes they are more gentle than others, but sometimes they go all out, biting at each other's ears, limbs, necks, etc. Sometimes the puppy moans and whines and lets out these screechy barks. Her upper lip also curls up. Relay is more laid back, less whining/barking, but is definitely holding her own. We think she is the dominant one - she puts her front legs over Dash, she calls off the playing when it is done, she gives the warnings about being too close to her things, etc. So, I guess I am just looking for some reassurance that this is normal and as long as it is supervised, especially in these crucial first weeks, there is nothing to worry about. What do you all think?
Thanks!