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Dog Play Explained: From Wiggles to Warnings

  • emmajaynecaninebeh
  • Aug 17
  • 2 min read

A phrase I hear often: “All good 😊 neither dog is growling!” or “It’s fine, the tail is wagging!”


Hang on, Dogs can growl in play, and tails can wag when they are uncomfortable and often do. No growling or wagging tail on its own doesn’t always mean everything is okay.


So how can we tell when it’s just play, and when things might be tipping into something else?


The truth is, it’s not always easy, but by looking at a few key signs in their body language and energy, we can usually figure it out.


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⚡ Immediate Posture Changes & Rigidity

Some dogs pause, go still, and then explode into loose, wiggly movements. That’s often just play.


But there’s another kind of stillness to watch for, the tight, tense kind. It can linger even when the other dog is trying to signal “all’s good here.”


Look for:

  • Hard stares or leaning/standing over another dog

  • Stiff body posture, even from the dog on the ground

  • Movements that feel rigid instead of bouncy and wiggly


Loose and floppy? Probably play. Still and tense? Time to step in.


🚨 When High Energy Turns Frantic

Chasing and being chased is a classic playful game; some dogs love it!


But watch for:

  • A sudden escalation in speed or intensity

  • One dog is always being the chaser

  • Body language that tightens when the chasee is caught


If the game stops looking mutual, or one dog seems stressed, it’s time to intervene. Play should feel good for everyone involved, not just the dog doing the chasing.


The Bottom Line

We don’t want to stop dogs from playing. Play is enriching, social, and often joyful.


But not all play is equal. Healthy play is:

  • Mutual

  • Safe

  • Enjoyable for all dogs involved


If you notice tense postures, frantic chasing, or dogs repeatedly trying to escape, give them a breather and reset the energy.


Want to Practise in Real Life?

Reading body language takes practice.

That’s why I run Bark Buddies, a relaxed social skills class where dogs can interact safely and owners can build confidence spotting the difference between healthy play and when to step in.


📅 Classes run every Friday

📍 Hampton Lucy 9.30am & Lighthorn Heath 11.00am

 
 
 

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