Understanding Dog Play Fighting
To the untrained eye, dog play fighting can look alarmingly aggressive. Snarls, growls, and teeth-baring might seem like signs of a full-blown dogfight in the making. However, as someone who has been training dogs for over three decades, I can assure you that this type of rough-and-tumble play is not only natural but also beneficial for our canine companions.
Play fighting, also known as social play, is a crucial aspect of a dog’s development and social interactions. It allows them to practice important skills, strengthen bonds, and engage in healthy physical and mental exercise. While it may appear intense, play fighting is distinctly different from real fighting, with dogs exhibiting specific behaviors and signals to communicate that they are merely engaging in playful fun.
Recognizing Play Signals
Body Language
One of the most recognizable play signals is the play bow. This iconic canine pose, with the front legs stretched forward and the rear end in the air, is an unmistakable invitation to play. Dogs will often initiate play sessions with a play bow or use it during play to reaffirm the playful nature of their interactions.
Additionally, dogs engaged in play fighting will exhibit exaggerated, bouncy movements and relaxed facial expressions. Their bodies will appear loose and wiggly, and their mouths will often be open in a relaxed, panting manner, rather than tightly clenched as they would be during a real fight.
Vocalizations
Growling and snarling might seem like obvious signs of aggression, but in the context of play, they take on a different meaning. Dogs often growl and snarl during play fighting as a way of communicating their excitement and engagement in the activity.
Interestingly, research has shown that dogs can distinguish between play growls and aggressive growls based on their acoustical properties. When play growls are played back to dogs in the absence of visual cues, they react differently than when exposed to growls given in agonistic (conflicting) contexts. This demonstrates that dogs understand the nuances of these vocalizations and recognize when a growl is merely part of the playful banter.
Unorthodox Play Styles
Every dog has their own unique way of playing, and some may engage in behaviors that seem unconventional or even concerning to human observers. For example, I’ve witnessed close canine friendships where one dog consistently adopts a more assertive role, pinning, body-slamming, or neck-biting their playmate repeatedly.
In these situations, it’s crucial to observe the dynamics between the dogs closely. If the “recipient” of the assertive behavior remains an enthusiastic participant, actively seeking out and engaging in the play, then it’s likely that this is simply their preferred style of play. Dogs are remarkably adept at communicating their boundaries and comfort levels, and as long as both parties are enjoying themselves, there’s no need for concern.
One of my fondest memories is of Sage, a German Shepherd, and Sam, a Labradoodle, whose play rituals involved Sage repeatedly pinning and neck-biting Sam. Despite the apparent roughness, Sam would consistently offer his neck to Sage, inviting the interaction, and both dogs would emerge from their marathon play sessions relaxed and content.
Benefits of Play Fighting
Far from being a mere frivolous activity, play fighting offers numerous benefits for dogs. It serves as a vital tool for social bonding, allowing dogs to establish and maintain healthy relationships with their canine companions. Through play, dogs learn to communicate effectively, set boundaries, and develop trust and respect for one another.
Additionally, play fighting contributes to cognitive development by providing mental stimulation and opportunities for problem-solving. Dogs must navigate complex social dynamics, anticipate their playmate’s movements, and adapt their own behaviors accordingly, fostering important cognitive skills.
Physically, play fighting offers an excellent form of exercise, helping dogs burn energy and maintain overall fitness. It also allows them to practice coping skills, preparing them for unexpected situations and teaching them how to respond appropriately to various stimuli.
Managing Play Fighting
While play fighting is generally safe and beneficial, it’s important to monitor interactions, especially between dogs of significantly different sizes or ages, or those who are unfamiliar with one another. In these cases, it’s wise to exercise caution and intervene if necessary to prevent potential injuries or escalations.
However, for dogs who are well-acquainted and have established a healthy play dynamic, it’s often best to allow them to set their own boundaries and navigate their play sessions. By intervening too frequently or unnecessarily, we may inadvertently disrupt their ability to communicate effectively and establish a respectful, mutually enjoyable play relationship.
If you’re ever unsure about the nature of a specific interaction, try briefly separating the dogs. If one dog seems relieved by the interruption, it may be time to end the play session. However, if both dogs eagerly try to re-engage, it’s likely they were simply engaged in their usual play fighting routine.
FAQs
Is play fighting practice for real fighting?
No, contrary to popular belief, play fighting is not a form of practice for real fighting or combat skills. Research suggests that animals engage in social play for various reasons, such as forming social bonds, enhancing cognitive development, exercising, and practicing coping skills for unexpected situations. Play fighting is a natural and beneficial behavior, not a precursor to aggression.
Should I always interrupt growling and snarling during play?
Not necessarily. Growling and snarling are common vocalizations during play fighting and do not necessarily indicate aggression. As long as both dogs are exhibiting other play signals and seem to be enjoying the interaction, these vocalizations can be part of their normal play routine. However, if the growling or snarling escalates or is accompanied by signs of stress or discomfort, it’s wise to intervene.
What if one dog seems too rough during play?
Dogs have their own unique play styles, and some may appear rougher than others. As long as both dogs are willing participants and neither seems distressed or uncomfortable, a certain level of roughness is acceptable. However, if one dog consistently avoids or tries to disengage from the play, or if there are signs of fear or aggression, it’s best to separate them and provide appropriate outlets for their energy separately.
How can I prevent play fighting from escalating into real fights?
To prevent play fighting from escalating, it’s important to closely monitor the dogs’ body language and behavior. Intervene if either dog seems overly aroused, stressed, or unwilling to continue. Additionally, ensure that both dogs have appropriate outlets for their energy and playtime, such as interactive toys or separate play sessions, to prevent frustration or resource guarding.
Should I let my puppy play fight with an older dog?
Introducing a puppy to an older dog requires careful supervision and management. Puppies can be overly persistent and may inadvertently annoy or overwhelm an older dog. It’s important to give both dogs breaks and separate them if the older dog seems uncomfortable or frustrated. Additionally, ensure that the puppy learns appropriate play etiquette and boundaries under your guidance.
Can play fighting ever be too rough or dangerous?
While play fighting may look intense, it’s generally safe as long as both dogs are willing participants and there are no signs of fear, aggression, or distress. However, if play fighting involves resource guarding (e.g., over toys or food), or if there is a significant size or age difference between the dogs, it’s best to exercise caution and closely monitor the interactions to prevent potential injuries or escalations.
Through understanding the nuances of dog play fighting, recognizing play signals, and managing interactions responsibly, we can foster healthy play environments for our canine companions. Remember, play fighting is a natural and beneficial behavior that strengthens bonds, promotes cognitive development, and provides invaluable exercise and mental stimulation for our furry friends.