Dog Play Primer: How to Tell If Your Dogs Are Having Fun

About play

When dogs play, they practice real-life behaviors like fighting, fleeing, chasing, and even courtship. That's why play fighting can include lots of teeth, growling, barking, body slams and throw-downs. You may also see mounting or a chin resting on another dog's shoulders. In a multi-dog home, you'll start to recognize each pair's own play style.

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Signs of good dog play: think MARS

Because play looks so much like the real thing, it helps to have a simple way to check it. MARS, an acronym from Academy for Dog Trainers graduate Jane Sigsworth, stands for meta-signals, activity shifts, role reversals and self-handicapping.

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• Meta-signals are the body language dogs use to say "let's play" and "don't take this bite seriously." Look for play bows, pawing, bouncy exaggerated movements and silly, goofy play faces.

• Activity shifts happen when dogs switch from one game to another, like chasing, then wrestling, then flirting, then chasing again.

• Role reversals mean the dogs take turns. The chaser becomes the one being chased, and the dog on top ends up on the bottom a few minutes later.

• Self-handicapping is when a bigger or stronger dog tones it down to keep the game fair and fun.

 

You can see videos of each sign at wigglebuttacademy.com/dogplay.

 

Consent tests: when you're not sure

Sometimes both dogs are clearly having a blast. But if something doesn't look right or your gut says to be careful, ask the dogs with a consent test.

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Identify the dog you think may be over the top and gently hold them back. Count to three slowly and watch the other dog. If that dog walks away, they weren't into the play right now. Give the dog you're holding some one-on-one play and let the other dog take a break. If the other dog tries to keep playing with the dog you're holding, they weren't done. Let go and keep watching.

Use consent tests as often as you like, any time you're not sure all is well.

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When to worry

• One-sided or serious chase. Chase should be mixed with other kinds of play and role reversals. Step in if it looks one-sided, if several dogs are chasing one dog, or if a dog has a flat back and locked-on stare like they're chasing prey. Chase games between large and small dogs should be avoided altogether.

• Pinning. If one dog is pinning another, interrupt the session and try again later. When in doubt, consent test.

• Big size differences. Always watch closely when dogs of very different sizes play. A grab and shake from a large dog can seriously hurt a small one.

• Bites, snaps, snarls, growls or stiffness. If it looks or sounds serious and your intuition says something's off, consent test. If the same dog keeps choosing to walk away, end the play session. Play should be fun, not scary.

 

As your dog ages

Senior dogs still need play, mental games, walks, sniffing, enrichment, snuggles, fun experiences and, for social dogs, time with other dogs. But some things may change.

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Play sessions may get shorter, and your dog may become pickier about playmates or less tolerant of certain play styles. A little less energy and a little more sleep are normal. But if your dog stops doing things they love, suddenly stops enjoying other dogs, sleeps much more than usual, becomes sensitive to touch, or starts moving stiffly or limping, it's time to check in with your veterinarian or reach out to us.

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For more on reading your dog, see our Calming Signals and A Law About Arousal flip books.

 

Questions about your dog's play?

Wiggle Butt Academy offers science- and kindness-based training and behavior help. We never use fear, force or pain. Visit us at our Plano location or book in-home help across Dallas. Virtual sessions worldwide.

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Address: 2257 Ridgeview Dr., Plano, TX 75025
Email: info@wigglebuttacademy.com
Phone: 469-444-1474

Visit wigglebuttacademy.com

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Content by Nicole Kohanski, MBA, CTC, Dip. CBST, CDBC, CBCC-KA, IAABC-ADT, CPDT-KA, and Wiggle Butt Academy. MARS acronym courtesy of Jane Sigsworth.