Is My Puppy Playing too Rough?

Playtime can get intense for puppies. So, it is important to distinguish normal play behavior from problematic behavior.

What Is Normal Puppy Behavior?

Puppies chase, pounce, bark, growl, and bite while playing. Your pal may also wag their tail, dart back and forth, and even growl or bark at high pitches. Additionally, they may spontaneously pounce on people or objects. Your pal may also bow where they stretch out their front legs, lower their chest to the ground, and raise their bottom in the air. However, it is important to note that generally your companion’s ears will be up and their mouth will be open and relaxed.

What is Problem Behavior?

Warning signs for aggressive behavior include deep, prolonged growling, stiff posture, and a staring gaze. And, your companion’s ears are likely to be pulled back. Additionally, it is not normal for a puppy to react to pain or fear by growling or snapping. Puppies in a dog back would not respond aggressively to adult dogs. So, it is important to correct this behavior while your furry friend is young. Otherwise, your pal is more likely to bite and injure other people or dogs in the future.

What Do I Do?

If your pal is showing aggressive behavior, it is important to not punish the behavior. Instead, reward good behavior. For example, when your puppy is quiet or relaxed, give your companion paise and a treat. Additionally, if your pal bites too hard, yell “ouch!” and step away from the play. You should also provide your four-legged friend with plenty of exercises, mental stimulation, and socialization.

Rough puppy play can be normal. However, it is important to identify when play becomes aggressive. Once you recognize these moments, you can implement training techniques to stop the behavior before it becomes a larger problem. Now get to playing!