Playing games of chase is a natural and fun behavior for dogs. Chasing and being chased can help dogs burn off energy, engage in natural behaviors, and bond with other dogs. However, at The Pack Indoor Dog Park, we know not all games of chase are safe or appropriate. Here’s what you need to know to ensure that your dog’s playtime is safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Signs of Safe and Appropriate Chase Play:
- Mutual Interest: When dogs play chase, it’s important that both dogs are interested in playing. If one dog is not interested or appears uncomfortable, it’s time to stop the game. This can be spotted by dogs hiding from being chased or trying to find protection in their owner or other people.
- Relaxed Body Language: Dogs who are playing chase should have relaxed, loose bodies. Their tails may be wagging, and they should not appear tense or stiff. You should also watch facial expressions for loose mouths and eyes. Play bows from both dogs in between back and forth chase is a great sign of relaxed play.
- Evenly Matched: Dogs who play chase should be evenly matched in terms of size, speed, and energy level. A small, slow dog may not enjoy being chased by a large, fast dog. There should also never be more than one dog or a full group of dogs chasing one other. This can sometimes introduce a dog’s prey drive and can be very intimidating for the dog being chased even if it appears they’re ok at first.
- Breaks in Play: It’s important to take breaks during games of chase to ensure that both dogs stay safe and hydrated. Prolonged play without breaks can lead to exhaustion and overheating. There should also be natural pauses in the play where dogs can check in with each other and ensure they’re both still enjoying the play and responding well to each other’s cues.
Signs that Chase Play Should Be Stopped:
- One-Sided Chasing: If one dog is doing all the chasing and the other is always running away, it’s time to intervene. This can lead to bullying and imbalanced play.
- Tension or Stiffness: If either dog appears tense or stiff, it’s time to stop the game. This can be a sign of discomfort or anxiety.
- Rough Play: Dogs who play chase should not be rough or aggressive with each other. If play becomes too rough, it’s time to intervene.
Intervening Safely:
If you need to intervene during a game of chase, it’s important to do so safely. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
- Use a Distraction: Use a toy or have staff at The Pack assist to distract one or both dogs and stop the game. This can be a gentle way to redirect their attention and works best when the game of chase first starts.
- Call Your Dog: Call your dog to you and reward them for coming when called. This can help them disengage from the game of chase.
- Use a Leash: If necessary, use a leash to separate the dogs. It’s important to do this carefully and calmly to avoid escalating the situation.
Playing games of chase can be a fun and healthy behavior for dogs, but it’s important to ensure that play stays safe and appropriate. By watching for signs of safe and appropriate play, knowing when to stop the game, and intervening safely if necessary, you can help ensure that your dog’s playtime is enjoyable for everyone involved. It’s also important to choose safe play spaces like The Pack Indoor Dog Park where trained staff can help ensure play is appropriate and all dogs are having a great time!
