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How to calm an over-excited puppy that gets aggressive during play?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 20 days old | 24.5 lbs

Hello, I have an English Lab puppy (11 weeks old) and noticed few times during play time, he became a little too aggressive. He kept running after me and jumping at me, deeper growling, and fixed gaze at me. He stopped few times but started over. I kept trying to push him away but I guess that was making him even worse. How can I stop him when he's doing this? It seems like he wants to dominate me and knows he's got the power over me (he does. He senses that this behavior frightens me) Thanks

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 12th, 2018

Hi there. From your description, it sounds like he's getting over-aroused during play and becoming too rough - this is a common problem in puppies, and is not a sign of "dominance" or any other issues :) He just gets too excited and doesn't know how to calm down. If you can, try and pay attention to the signs he gives that he's starting to get too worked up, so that you can end playtime before this happens. Give him a peanut butter stuffed Kong, a rawhide chew, or something else to keep him busy and help him calm down. If needed, you can put him in his crate or an x-pen for a few minutes to settle before letting him back out. If the problem continues, I would recommend getting in touch with a good reward-based trainer who can evaluate him in person and help you put together a more detailed plan to work on this behavior. You can search for one in your area here: www.ccpdt.org

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