Sometimes it can be hard to tell if our dogs are playing or if a fight is about to happen. And sometimes, what we think is a gesture of play is actually an act of dominance or aggression. After all, teeth, loud noises, and making physical contact are often involved in both instances of play and fighting. Here are five common things to keep an eye out for when dogs are interacting to help you determine if they're playing or not.
You've probably seen these before (if not, see the picture below). In play, dogs will take turns making these gestures towards each other. Play bows seem to serve as an invitation to play, and indicate that their behaviors are all meant in good fun. For example, quick motions and use of teeth by one dog towards another dog often leads to fights, but when these behaviors are preceded by a play bow they usually lead to more friendly interactions. However, not all dogs like to play and owners and more playful dogs need to know how to read and respect boundaries. A dog who does not wish to play will walk away after being shown a play bow, whereas a dog who's ready to rumble will make another inviting gesture towards the other dog, such as moving towards them, returning a play bow, or rolling on the ground.
Taking Turns & Give and Take
When dogs are playing they take turns chasing each other, almost like a human game of tag. Playful dogs who understand boundaries will back off a little bit to give their playmate an opportunity to engage first. If there seems to be a balanced back-and-forth between the dogs, it's a good sign they're engaged in healthy play. If one dog keeps engaging a dog who keeps walking away, or if a dog seems relentless without giving the other dog a chance to initiate, it's a good indication that the excited dog doesn't understand or respect the cues given by the disinterested dog and it'd be a good idea to separate them.
Taking Breaks Together
Dogs who play well together take breaks together. They'll pause to catch a breath or get some water, or maybe even engage their people. A dog who knows how to play nicely will wait until their buddy is ready for more action. When a dog doesn't allow their playmate to take a break, the dog who isn't given a chance to rest won't keep a playful spirit for long. It's best to monitor play and help set boundaries if needed.
Self-Awareness
When dogs play they will often use their teeth and mouths on each other, but they do so more gently than they would if they weren't playing. Accidents can happen, especially when a dog is still learning bite inhibition, but generally there shouldn't be any painful yelps or blood involved.
Healthy play can occur between dogs of very different sizes and ages, and the dog with an advantage over the other should adjust their strength and energy to meet the abilities of their playmate. Making sure one dog isn't being too rough with another dog will help prevent fights or injuries.
Body Language & Vibes
Playing dogs will have loose postures, bouncy movements, and will make themselves vulnerable (like rolling on their backs). Sometimes play can escalate beyond the comfort level of one dog, and if the more confident or energetic dog has a good understanding of boundaries and social cues, they will give the less confident or energetic dog time and space. This can happen with dogs who are just meeting and getting to know each other, or when a well-socialized dog engages with a dog who hasn't had as many doggie interactions. If the dog who indicated discomfort goes back for more play after a break, it's a good sign they're warming up to their new playmate.
On the other hand, stiff bodies, raised hackles, and continued growling, barring of teeth, or staring another dog down are signs that this dog is not playing around and the dogs need to be separated immediately. Other signs of aggression or dominance are pinning another dog down, cornering them, or stiffly standing with their head over another dog’s shoulders.
Summary
These are just five things to keep an eye on when dogs are interacting. Other things to pay attention to include different tail wags, vocalizations, and how much the dogs are shaking off. Understanding and honoring your dog's demeanor, energy levels, and physical abilities will help you choose appropriate playmates (if play is even something your dog enjoys) and help you determine when an interaction is healthy or not. Dogs don't always know how to respect boundaries, so it's important for us to help them learn what they are and for us to stick up for a dog who's uncomfortable or being bullied. Dogs should never be left to figure it out on their own or fend for themselves because play can quickly turn into fear and/or aggression.
Knowledge Test
How does this interaction look to you? Which of the five things outlined in this article can you identify? What additional things can you identify?
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