10/09/2026
Hugo and Luna with your daily display of good play etiquette amongst dogs...
Something so many of us misunderstand and do not read properly or manage correctly. It's a recipe for a fight and often the starting point of developing a dog reactive dog.
The most important thing to note is that dogs DO NOT need to play with each other to enjoy themselves, some dogs enjoy it and others don't however the notion that dogs must go on "play dates" is something we've fabricated as humans because we relate it to the dogs having a good time.
Good dog play etiquette requires the following -
Loose, wiggly body language:
Look for relaxed, bouncy movements, open mouths, and frequent "play bows" (front elbows on the ground, hindquarters up) to signal that aggressive-looking behaviors like growling or biting are just a game.
Reciprocal role reversals:
Good play is balanced. Dogs should take turns being the chaser and the chased, or willingly swap between being on top and being on the bottom during a wrestling match.
Self-handicapping:
A larger, stronger, or more energetic dog should intentionally adjust their speed and physical strength to match a smaller or more timid playmate, ensuring the game stays fair.
Frequent micro-breaks:
Dogs should naturally pause every few minutes to shake off, sniff the ground, or simply catch their breath. These brief resets prevent arousal levels from escalating into a real fight.
Respecting boundaries:
If one dog yelps, tucks their tail, moves away to hide, or clearly tries to disengage, the other dog must immediately back off and respect that the play session is paused or over.
Even with all the above, play should never be left to go on for extended periods of time and if your dog shows poor etiquette when playing it is important to break up the play and move your dog along to another activity.
The best way for dogs to learn about play is to select the dogs you allow them to play with wisely.
You know where to find us ππ°