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Is my rescue Husky's rough outdoor play with my toddler aggression?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Female | 2 years and 10 months old | 35 lbs

Hello, I recently got a 3 yr old Husky from a couple. The dog is very submissive indoors. You can tell she has been abused. She was in an apt. in not a good part of town with not good owners. Indoors she is great with my 2 yr old. She plays in her crate with her and all around is VERY docile. Outside she runs and plows into my 2 yr old. Hair on end and she began to jump around all around her. Twice. Is this aggresive or play? There were other dogs outside. One my dog is not fond of.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 25th, 2018

Hello, and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. From your description, I suspect this is more likely play-related, although it's impossible to say for sure without observing the behaviors in person. Huskies are very high energy dogs, and it's common for them to get extra excited & wound-up when they get to play outside. Sometimes their playfulness can get carried away, especially with smaller children who don't have the same degree of authority or confidence around the dog. I would be very careful with your 2-year-old around her, as she could work herself up and hurt your daughter, even if she doesn't mean to. Of course, if you're concerned that these might be moments of aggression rather than rough play, it's absolutely worth getting input from a reputable trainer or behaviorist. Your vet should be able to recommend someone in your area. Alternatively, if you are planning to see your primary vet soon, you can try to catch any of Luna's moments of excitement on video, and show those short videos to your vet next time you're in to get their input on her behavior. I hope this helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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