Socializing with small dogs advice

[theoppgals]

I have a 8 wk old new boxer baby girl and want to socialize her with my parents Shih Tzu. Their dog is pretty calm and really sweet (about 5-6 years old), mine isn't calm but she is sweet , and I want them to be able to play together. For now they are the same size but that won't last long and I worry about her accidently hurting him. I would appreciate any advice anyone has on whether I should let them play together or make her stick to ones her own size. Because they are the same size now and he is calmer will she always call the shots or will he only take so much and outrank her? She wants to play with him so badly but I think he is not interested in her and all that energy. Thanks!

April
Mama to Hayley 01/07

 

[Tinarmrz]

I have 4 Miniature Schnauzers and Abby(11week old Boxer) the Schnauzers play great with her and no matter how big Abby gets she has learned early on who the pack leader is. One of my Schnauzers barks and growls at one of my dads bigger dogs and the big dog is scared, thing is he doesn't know he is big he just sinces by her attitude that she is an alpha dog. It would be best to let them play now than when your pup is full grown, let them all learn now. My male Schnauzer has made Abby cry, but I think more because he scared her, because she goes right back to it, I think she is rougher than him.

 

[shaebabybsw]

Get them together now!! Don't wait until your pup is bigger than the other. You parents dog will teach your pup respect out of age and it will likely carry through for all their years together. They need to have regular interaction, especially in the beginning for this to be successful. I had a neighbor who had a chiuahua that ruled my German Shephards world! You just have to make the relationship early.