Dog Play
Jump to: Dog Parks
Whether your dog is at a dog park or in your yard, there is a lot to learn about dog play. Many owners confuse play and aggression. Play can look aggressive, but it’s enjoyable to both dogs if you see these signs:
- Play bows
(front legs outstretched, hind quarter up)
- Bark or high-pitched growl
- Balance between being on top
and being on bottom
- Mouth open when play biting
- Hackles aren’t up
- Dogs stop and start again
- Relaxed, loose bodies
NOTE: Growling, snapping and biting are common during play |
When dogs play off-leash, you should know the difference between polite interactions and signs of trouble. Use these signals to decide if your dog is safe or if it’s time to leave. Dog parks can be particularly stressful and sometimes unsafe unless you closely watch what’s going on.
Polite Dog to Dog Interactions
Dogs that are polite and get along with each
other:
- Approach other dogs in an arc
- Move slowly and calmly
- Avoid eye contact
- May sniff other dog
- Soft eyes, ears, tails and bodies
NOTE: Dogs walked on a leash are forced to approach each other head on.
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Signs of Trouble
These behaviors can be a warning sign of trouble:
- Staring at the other dog
- One dog standing with his head and neck over the other dog’s neck or shoulders in a “t” position
- Walking around the other dog with
- Legs stiff
- Neck arched
- Tail held high
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Dog Parks
Keep in mind that not every dog enjoys being in a dog park, and not every dog park is appropriate for your dog. Check out the dogs and owners at the times that you and your dog are most likely to go. Are any of the dogs bullies? Are their owners paying attention to what’s going on? Is there a separate area for the smaller dogs to play? Are there a large number of intact males? Dogs need exercise, including play, but playtime needs to be a good experience. Don’t discount the importance of playtime at home with you.
If you do go to a dog park, DON’T:
- bring a dog under 4 months old
- take a timid dog to a busy dog park
- insist that your dog stay at the dog park, even if he seems uncomfortable
- use treats or toys when other dogs are nearby
- let your dog off-leash in an unfenced dog park if he doesn’t respond
to your verbal commands every time
- bring intact males or females in heat to a dog park
- allow dogs to form loose packs or bully others
- talk with the other owners if you can’t watch and supervise your dog at the same time
- take advice from other dog parents who are not dog professionals
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If you do go to a dog park, DO:
- check your dog’s overall health with your veterinarian and make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date
- make sure the fence and gates are secure
- leave if you notice that the dogs have potential health or behavior problems
- leave if your dog is being a bully or being bullied, the play is getting too rough, or your dog is not having fun
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