"Aggressive" Puppy

[mastiffsj]

I adopted one of my fosters to a home a few weeks ago. The puppy is three months old, and the owner has a none month old male. The new owner is concerned about the pup's temperment because she is being "aggressive" while playing with the male. The male does not try and correct her, nor does he react in any way to the puppy's behavior. The puppy has mounted him a few times...and he has a few places where she has bitten/chewed on him. She did not do this at my house, however all of the dogs at my house are somewhat dominant and she never tested them. I feel that if the male is not reacting to this, it is ok and normal play for pups who are getting to know each other/she is finding her place in the new home with them. If he were reacting aggressively and she kept doing it, I would worry.

I am far from a professional though, and the new family is worried. Thoughts?????

[RealPitBull]

The 9 month old is a male Pit Bull? Is the 3 month old causing physical damage to the 9mo? I'd definitely be concerned if there is physical damage, can't have one dog causing harm to another. It could just be normal puppy play - Pit Bulls do play rough. But what happens when the male decides he's had enough? Also, what about the 3mo learning to be overly pushy/rough? The owners need to intervene and prevent the play from escalating past the point of safe/fun for BOTH dogs. These are also both young Pit Bulls, not even close to maturity, so the situation needs to be watched closely to make sure there isn't an explosive dog-aggression situation brewing in the home.

[mastiffsj]

Yes, the nine month old is a pit bull. I am being told there are "srapes" I've asked for more info on that. I've suggested she give Jada (female puppy) time outs when she gets too rough. To me it really sounds like playing, but I am going to find a trainer in their area to suggest (MS). Should she do the time outs or no? I feel that I've made a big mistake by letting her go at such a young age now.

[RealPitBull]

Time outs would def help her if she is getting too rough. Something to stop the play escalating to the point where it is getting too rough.

[mastiffsj]

THANK YOU!!!