Dog Play

Dog Play is intentional and most of the the time seems harmless.  Who doesn't love to play tug with their pup!  It is important to understand that dogs use play as a power up.  By that I mean they live in the moment and will feel like they "one up'd you" if you lose the battle or play moment.  If your dog has other issues this little moment can be used to solidify or keep solidifying the fact that the pup is obviously in charge of you in their eyes.  So, it's important to work your dog in other areas of it's life to balance out the bigger picture and your relationship so play doesn't become a thing. It is also important to teach proper play and begin and end the play.  You can also use play as a motivator or reward.  Next time you are playing tug watch, ball or whatever with your dog watch for it's subtle cues in the game.  See if in fact he/she is trying to one up you.   

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