Play

Play is behavior that appears to have no immediate goal beyond enjoyment. Dogs chase, wrestle, tug, mouth each other and mimic hunting and fighting moves, often with signals that mean "this is a game", such as the play bow, relaxed faces and exaggerated bouncing.

Healthy play includes role reversal, with the chaser becoming the chased, and self-handicapping, in which a bigger dog lets a smaller one win. Both show that dogs take care of their partner's comfort. Short pauses are normal.

Play is important for puppies, as it builds social skills and bite inhibition. It becomes a concern if one dog is trying to get away, is pinned or is frightened, or if the tone turns stiff and silent. Interrupt, give each dog a break and ask a trainer if it happens often. Play with people also strengthens the human and dog bond.