I took Beau for a walk this morning - Beau likes to have a woof at some dogs (not a nasty woof - if the other dog just ignores her she will happily go and sniff it then will want to play....if the dog barks back she will bark at it like a loon)

anyway we seen a few dogs on the walk and she was very good only barked at one dog (whos owner didnt look impressed and avoided us the rest of the walk)

The concen I have is when she sniffs the other dogs her hackles goes up what does this mean (she never growls at them but can become quite rough and sounds like shes gonna kill when playing but thats how she plays with my other dog in the house ) ... no matter how many times they get told off for being that rough they still do it

Do i need to be worried about the hackles going up ... ive always thought that hackles mean the dog is about to bite

any help would be appriciated

My baby Beau - she is the most soft and loving GSD ive ever met

It can also mean they are nervous and unsure. Id keep an eye on any meetings with other dogs to make sure both dogs are feeling relaxed and friendly about it.

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I would agree with catz4m8z, She coudl be getting a little uncomfortable with how rought the play is becomng with a strange dog. I'd try keeping play sessions with a new doggie friend short. Some dogs can easily become a little over stimulated and become too rough, it's better to stop before either dog becomes uneasy.

ETA: it's different with regular doggie friends and other dogs you own.

She beautiful by the way and thats coming from some one who couldn't look at a gsd this time last year.

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They can also go up when excited - it doesn't always mean aggression

Some dogs just play rough. As long as the other dog (and owner) doesn't mind, tails are wagging and both dogs are going back for more. Then I wouldn't really worry about it. Just be aware that other owners who don't know your dog may always treat you guys a bit iffy.

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