As the males are usually bigger, one of them usually becomes dominant. Interestingly, the dominant pup and the lowest-ranking pup often form a bond. This helps low-ranking pups avoid excessive bullying from their litter mates. The low-ranking pup seeks out the company of the dominant pup and receives protection from the other litter mates. Even as a pup, the fox shows its preference for living alone.
Pups seem to enjoy playing and hunting by themselves.
They also take naps away from their litter mates. As the pups grow older, their play becomes rougher. This play fighting begins to drive the litter apart.