The Wednesday Wellness threads are meant to encourage users to ask for and provide advice and motivation to improve their lives. It isn't intended as a 'containment thread' and any content which could go here could instead be posted in its own thread. You could post:
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Honestly, it sounds like a classic case of tiny dog syndrome. Take with a big pinch of salt because I've never owned a dog, but I've read that you often get problems with tiny dogs who are indulged because they're cute and they take that as proof that they're top of the pecking order. The fact that you scold your dogs for trying to hurt him only adds to this.
Ideally, what you want is to make him realise that he's a tiny dog. It sounds like your lab is harmless, so perhaps you could let him interact with the spitz without the GSD present. The Spitz can wear himself out, realise he isn't taken seriously, and maybe calm down a bit. Then maybe you can reintroduce the GSD at a later date.
Obedience training for the spitz might also help.
https://holidaybarn.com/blog/small-dog-syndrome/
https://www.purina.com.au/dogs/behaviour/small-dog-syndrome
My girlfriend absolutely spoils him, so while I suspect you're right, it would be a bad idea to voice it haha.
When the lab and the Spitz are left together, they keep their distance unless someone forces them closer, at which point the lab starts growling and barking, and the Spitz either shuts up or starts barking back if he's being coddled safely. In more neutral settings, before the barking starts, the lab will happily sniff the Spitz without barking first.
I'll give your advice a whirl! Thanks.
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