29/07/2026
Dog on dog play. Some things to look for when your dog is playing and you are not sure they enjoy it. Examples of dog play that is enjoyed by all dogs
- Two dogs chase each other, then swap roles, with each taking turns being the chaser and the one being chased.
- Dogs wrestle briefly, pause, then both choose to continue playing after a few seconds.
- One dog performs a play bow (front legs down, rear end up), and the other responds by joining in.
- Dogs mouth each other gently without causing injury, while both maintain loose, relaxed body language.
- A dog runs away during play, then turns around and runs back, inviting the other dog to continue.
- Both dogs have soft, wiggly bodies and relaxed tails throughout the interaction.
- One dog shakes off after a play session, and both dogs calmly re-engage.
- The dogs take short breaks to sniff the ground or look around, then both voluntarily return to playing.
- Examples that suggest one dog is not enjoying the play
- One dog repeatedly tries to walk away, but the other continues chasing and doesn’t allow a break.
- A dog hides behind a person or furniture to avoid the other dog.
- One dog is pinned to the ground repeatedly without opportunities to get up or reverse roles.
- A dog becomes stiff, tucks its tail, or freezes while the other continues to pester it.
- One dog yelps repeatedly and tries to escape, but the play continues.
- The same dog is always chasing, pinning, or body-slamming, with no turn-taking.
- One dog disengages after you interrupt the play, while the other immediately tries to restart it.
- Growling or snapping escalates without pauses or role reversals, leading to obvious tension rather than playful interaction.
Key point: Healthy play is mutual, balanced, and voluntary. If both dogs repeatedly choose to continue, take turns, and remain relaxed, it’s more likely that they are both enjoying the interaction.