Expert: Jannie Balliett - 10/30/2008

Question
Our boxer, Jinjer is 20 months old, she goes to daycare about once a week, the dog park once a week, and has been through basic training.  Usually when entering the dog park, she summits allowing the dogs to sniff her, then we gradually work our way to the middle of the area and then she begins to play.  Just recently, I have noticed at the dog park, if there is a "fight" she runs and begins to take up for the "weaker", more submissive dog which then turns the other dog's attention to her.  Jinjer has an 11 year old boxer "sister" at home and they get along quite well, Jinjer does display the mounting of her paws on Dayzee's back while playing at times.  I am very worried about this behavior any suggestions would be helpful.

Answer
I wouldn't worry about it, she is an "alpha" dog, and quite the heroine, helping the weaker dog.

The mounting is a "domination" show, to inform the other dog that she is the stronger and in control. She means no harm, it's just dog language.

As long as Jinjer is not harming Dayzee, all is well. Dayzee probably feels too old to challenge her for the alpha position, even though she's the oldest.

And as far as the dog park goes, this is going to take some training with patience and consistency.

Take her, but leash her, let her roam and play, unleashing her. The second she sticks her nose into someone else's fight, leash her immediately and verbally reprimand her, removing her from the park, as punishment.

You will need to prearrange your command dialogue. Select easy to understand simple commands and verbage, and use a stern tone, but never yell, etc.

Be consistent and soon she will learn she is doing wrong, and being punished by leaving the park and being leashed. When she starts obeying your commands to stop the aggression and fighting, treat her with a special treat and praise and love her.

Association is the best teacher-- and consistency.