As a dog owner, you know how important (and fun) it is for your furry friend to socialize with other dogs at The Pack Indoor Dog Park. Playtime with other dogs can be a great way for your dog to exercise, burn off excess energy, and learn important social skills. However, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s behavior during playtime to make sure they’re not getting too excited or over-aroused from extended play.
Like a bucket filling with water, both positive and negative interactions for your dog can add to their bucket. Every dog has their own threshold, but when the bucket overflows, they are over-aroused. Over-arousal can be a problem for dogs during playtime because it can lead to aggressive behavior, injury, and even fights. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some signs that your dog may be over-aroused while playing with other dogs and what you can do to help them calm down.
- Excessive barking or growling
While some barking and growling is normal during dog playtime, excessive barking or growling can be a sign that your dog is over-aroused. If your dog is constantly barking or growling during playtime, it may be time to take a break and calm them down. - Pacing or jumping
If your dog is pacing or jumping around during playtime, it may be a sign that they’re over-aroused. These behaviors can be a sign that your dog is feeling overwhelmed or over-stimulated, and it’s important to take a break and give them some time to calm down. - Mouthiness or nipping
While some nipping and mouthing is normal during dog playtime, if your dog is biting or nipping excessively including biting other dogs tails and hind legs in chase, it may be a sign that they’re over-aroused. This behavior can be dangerous for both your dog and other dogs, so it’s important to take a break and calm your dog down. - Stiff body language
If your dog’s body is stiff and tense during playtime, it may be a sign that they’re over-aroused. This behavior can be a sign that your dog is feeling stressed or anxious, and it’s important to take a break and give them some time to calm down. Their tail might be wagging, but if it’s a high stiff tail making a tik-tok motion, this is your cue to remove them from the situation they’re in. - Inability to disengage
If your dog is unable to disengage from playtime, it may be a sign that they’re over-aroused. If your dog is constantly trying to initiate play, even when other dogs are not interested or doesn’t greet dogs for a moment first before starting the play, it may be time to take a break and give your dog some time to calm down. - Playing on their hind legs
If your dog is mostly playing up on their hind legs boxing style with other dogs, it may be time to hold onto them for a few moments and give them a break from play. This play style is common in high energy and young dogs, but is high-arousal play and often can lead to issues if not interrupted.
So what can you do to help your dog calm down during playtime? Here are a few tips:
- Take frequent breaks
If you notice that your dog is becoming over-aroused, take a break from playtime and give them some time to calm down. At The Pack, you can do this by calling your dog to you and sitting holding your dog still with you for a few minutes. You can even ask our team for a slip lead so they stay with you. You can also ask our staff if you can utilize a separate gated area for your dog to take a break. By taking a few moments of rest, your dog will gradually learn how to play appropriately. - Use positive reinforcement
Reward your dog with praise and/or petting while at The Pack they exhibit calm behavior during playtime. This will help reinforce the behavior and encourage your dog to stay calm during playtime. - Monitor playtime
Keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior during playtime. Our team at The Pack Indoor Dog Park will monitor your dog’s arousal levels as well. If you notice that your dog is becoming over-aroused, it may be time to head home for the day. By leaving before your dog exhibits unwanted behaviors, you ensure your dog continues to learn what’s appropriate during playtime and has fun!
Over-arousal can be a problem for dogs during playtime, but with a little observation and intervention, you can help your dog stay calm and safe during playtime with other dogs. By knowing your dog and their limits and knowing when they’ve had enough, you can help your dog have fun and stay safe while socializing with other dogs at The Pack Indoor Dog Park.
Great information. Hopefully people will read and appreciate these helpful tips.