Dogs Play in Many Different Ways!

The play style of dogs is important to consider when determining what dogs should play together. Many dogs will play in different ways in different situations. This can depend on where they are, how many dogs are around, the size of the other dogs, the play style of the other dogs, their comfort level, and various other factors. These are some of the most common play styles you can observe at doggy daycare!

Cheerleader

The “cheerleader” will always be positioned on the outskirts of the actual play, barking, and running around with the group but never actually in the middle of the action, and occasionally nipping. This type of play also occasionally involves “policing” dog play – the cheerleader will sometimes jump into the middle of dog play and break things up. While this appears to be “rude” or bad manners, it’s just another style of play.

Body Slammer

Body slammers will run and slam themselves into others, rotate their bodies in circles so that they’re contacting other dogs with their rumps. When you see two “body-slammers” playing, it’s a sight to see!

Wrestler

Wrestlers like to make full contact, one dog will commonly get on top of another and “pin” that dog, then they will often take turns “pinning” each other to the ground.  Dogs that play nicely as wrestlers will both change places with their playmate and not dominate the whole time.

Tugger

Tuggers love to grab a toy and attempt to lure another dog into grabbing the other end. The dogs then proceed to play tug-of-war with one another.

Chaser

Dogs with lots of energy often like to chase one another and consider a good play session one where lots of ground is covered quickly. These dogs will often play tag with one another until they collapse on the ground panting…then they do it all over again!

Soft Toucher

Soft touching seems to be more common in shy dogs and older dogs. These dogs don’t want to engage in an all-out wrestling match and would be upset if one of their canine buddies started body slamming them. Instead, they feel comfortable with soft touches of the noses, nuzzling of the neck, and what appears to be “kissing” at times.

Adaptive

Some dogs just love to play and be involved! Their desire to be in the middle of the action, prompts them to adjust their play style to match their playmates at the time.

Think Your Pup Would Like to Play with Friends at Daycare?

Whether your dog is a social butterfly or prefers to watch the action from a distance, there could be a place for them with us at Puppy Play and Stay! The staff at Puppy Play and Stay are here to monitor safety, engage your dog in play, and keep them entertained. Contact us with questions and to set up an orientation day if you think that daycare sounds like it would be beneficial to your dog!