Choosing the Right Playmate for Your Dog
In an ideal world, we could put any two dogs together and they would have a grand old time. The truth is every dog is different with distinct personalities and various preferences. So how do we find a good playmate for our pups? Let’s check out some compatibility considerations.
Play Style
There are lots of ways to play. Some dogs like to chase or be chased, some prefer tug-of-war, and some like to wrestle. If one dog is more calm while the other is a bit rowdier, they may not make good playmates. All of these styles are acceptable and natural ways for dogs to play as long as they are on the same page of what game they are playing.
Size
It’s ideal for dogs to be about the same size when it comes to playtime. Being similar in size decreases the chance of injury for the smaller dog. However, don’t rule out a dog because of its size – some of the best dog friends have a vast difference in size!
Age
Like size, age can be a factor when it comes to playing. A wound up youngster can annoy an older dog with incessant playing. If the older dog gets annoyed, he could lash out aggressively at the young pup. Worse even, the pup might not stop and cause the senior to increase his threat level. That being said, some dogs of different ages play very well together. It’s all about each dog’s unique personality.
Owner Views
When two dogs play, owners play a role. Each owner knows their own dog best. They know when their dog has reached his play limits, when he needs a break, if toys can be involved, and more quirks. Some owners get involved right away instead of letting the dogs communicate in ways that just dogs understand; others feel they need to “work it out themselves”. A general happy medium is somewhere in the middle – intervening when one dog isn’t getting the other dog’s message. If the owners are not on the same page on involvement in playing, it can be frustrating for all parties.
Playing Nicely
Some dogs have a lot of spirit while others prefer a calmer playtime. Being too exuberant can be scary or intimidating to some dogs. If one dog appears afraid of timid and the other is relentless, that dog is not playing nicely. If you feel a dog is being pushy towards yours, remove your dog from the situation. It could lead to a negative situation or teach your dog the same bad manners.
Habits
Just as we learn from one another, so do dogs. They are social creatures who pick up habits good and bad. Barking, digging, and howling are just a few behaviors that could be picked up that you might not prefer. Get to know your potential playtime pooch before letting your dog spend too much time with them to rule out any unruly habits.
Pure Chemistry
You can do all the research and preventative filtering possible and it might end up that your large lazy dog likes the hyper tiny one. If both dogs get along, enjoy each other’s company, and are generally playing the same game without getting frustrated or aggressive, let them play. The heart wants what it wants and sometimes there are just no reasons why.
When meeting another dog, be sure to do so slowly and gradually, as our dogs are still animals and we don’t know exactly how they will react in each scenario. Be careful with collars and harnesses, as the two dogs could get entangled, panic, and up hurting each other or you as you try to help. Let your dog decide who his puppy pals are and everyone will be happy! Once picking out the perfect new friend, follow these tips on how to bring him home.