We will never post without your permission, and we'll always keep your information private.
Psst Are you a brand, artist, shelter, or dog looking to get on Dogly?
Click Here:
And what could be better than watching your pup simply enjoy being a dog with another dog?
Your number one goal for a successful playdate (and to set you and your dog up for successful playdates for years to come):
That's your goal the first time and every time. You want the play session experience to be a good one. If your dog feels secure and happy playing with another dog, it helps set the foundation for your dog to feel comfortable around other dogs in the future and in other situations.
Playdates for your new dog and another dog are not something to jump into without planning. Even for a play session with your new pup and other dogs who are part of your family, you'll want to set the stage for a smooth and happy time for everyone.
**plan-panel
Set everyone up for success from the start with your choice of location and choice of your dog's play partner.
You'll want a low-key spot without other distractions, preferably outside, with a large enough, secured/fenced space with room to run and for either dog to be able to create distance when needed. You want a spot where you're in control of the surroundings and you can focus on the dogs. (Obviously, not a dog park or other public space.)
Since this is a new thing (one of many) for your new dog, you want your dog's play partner to be as predictable as possible, social but low-key, not easily ruffled if your dog gets a little in-your-face enthusiastic. You want a partner dog who will give your dog a measured check for any inappropriate play behaviors but brush it off without escalating.
Choosing appropriate dog play partners goes a long way toward setting everyone up for a happy, rewarding experience. It helps to know the dog parent too - and to know you bring the same goals to your dog date.
Let the dogs become familiar and slowly introduce themselves to alleviate some of the tension and initial excitement (and give you useful information about how they react to each other).
Using a parallel walk to meet each other gradually is a great way to start. You can do it right in your back yard or whatever space where they'll be playing.
If you haven't already been through the guide earlier here in the New Pet Channel on how and why to do parallel walks, it's a good idea to check out that guide first here.
**follow-panel
Both dogs should be equally invested in the play. If one dog is trying to avoid or escape play, he or she is not enjoying this playtime and we should make a timely intervention and redirect the attention of the other dog, the play initiator.
What does that mean? Certain behaviors are what dog trainers and behaviorists call "self-handicapping" body language. It's a way dogs have of signaling to the other dog -"I'm small... I'm not a threat...let's go easy."
Examples are behaviors like rolling over, using posture to appear small, lying down, or withholding full strength and energy. In the brief video we talk more about below, you’ll see that Lola, who is quite exuberant, also does have moments of making herself more vulnerable by crawling lower on the ground. That's a good sign when dogs mix in some chill or "take a break and catch our breath" behaviors, so the play isn't always at a fever pitch (and rising).
With appropriate play partners you also want to see is the dogs taking turns being on top or in a vulnerable position. If one or both dogs seem “stuck” like a broken record without self-handicapping or taking a break, play should be interrupted and separation may be needed briefly to reset.
Conversely, if one dog is consistently in the vulnerable position, you could have a fearful dog uncomfortable in the situation who is desperately trying to tell you - "I'm scared, get me out of here!" In that case, do exactly that right away before it escalates to striking out in fear. Then try something less threatening for your dog another day.
When one of the dogs corrects the other for inappropriate behavior (or behavior not received well), that dog may give a quick snap to get the message across to the other dog that they didn’t like that.
The other dog should respectfully respond by pausing, giving space or ending play. When corrections are given and received well between dogs, that's a wonderful thing. And it's great education for your dog to have an opportunity to learn this useful dog-to-dog language.
During dog play, the safest route is to have your dog no-collar naked or wearing a quick-release/side-release or breakaway collar.
It's surprisingly easy for collars to get entangled during play and the result is escalating panic from the dogs, tightening around their necks as they scramble to pull away, and frantic efforts on your part to disentangle them - almost impossible with buckle collars which usually end up having to be cut off with scissors.
(A couple examples of side-release/quick release collars we like here on Dogly: starry day side-release collar; sustainable, waterproof cork side-release collar.)
**plan-panel
How we set Lola up for success...
As this play went on, there were a few times where we interrupted play to redirect Lola’s focus. Lola’s arousal level would get a bit too high at times and Lucy would correct with a snap; Lola would continue to play (but not mutual at that point). She responded well with being called away mid-play for a brief doggy massage and was able to return back to play.
Nothing works better than to have a dog capable of giving a quick, harmless snap be the one to handle the corrections for the occasionally over-enthusiastic dog or a dog's "bullying" behavior unintentional or not. It's great learning for your dog to know how to process this kind of warning from another dog without reacting except to pull back on the unwanted "bullying" behaviors.
You'll want to keep a close eye on how your dog accepts these abbreviated, corrective snaps or woofs from the other dog. Most dogs seem to naturally "get it" when delivered from a more seasoned, low-key dog, but watch to make sure your dog gets the message and adjusts behavior, with no big deal.
No matter how well it's going with the two dogs playing, keep a close eye on them and be ready to intercede immediately if you see signs of tensions. One dog's rollicking good time can quickly become another dog's idea of bullying behavior and create friction. Be prepared to jump in if necessary and help everyone get back on a good track with a break, a redirect, or calling it quits for the day...
**channel-panel
Before your playdate -
When you see the dogs need a break to recalibrate energies and lower the action a bit -
When your dog is the one showing unwanted, too-forward behavior -
You want to avoid using "No!" or another scarily-charged word that will just confuse your dog and heighten negative emotions around play and other dogs (and you). Dogs learn better when when they feel like partners with you in learning what they're supposed to do.
Then you can proceed with a time-out away from the action for calming and treating. You may only need a few minutes before you ease back into play or longer based on how everyone is feeling.
When either dog shows concerning signs of aggression or discomfort -
Learn how to set up successful playdates for your new dog with tips on choosing the right play location and partner, reading dog body language, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable play session.
Now that you know how to have fun and stay safe on playdates with your dog, enjoy!
Continue on to check out other guides in the New Pet Channel if you haven't already - like the 3 most important starter training tips from a positive reinforcement trainer. Or if you're ready to learn more in training and across every important aspect of life for your dog, hop over to the Manners Channel in Training, Basic Nutrition Channel in Nutrition, or the Allergies Channel in Wellness.
And if you need more individualized help with your pup, you can reach out to me to work 1-on-1 with you here on Dogly for any training and behavioral needs to support your new family member!
DISCLAIMER: The content of this website and community is based on the research, expertise, and views of each respective author. Information here is not intended to replace your one-on-one relationship with your veterinarian, but as a sharing of information and knowledge to help arm dog parents to make more informed choices. We encourage you to make health care decisions based on your research and in partnership with your vet. In cases of distress, medical issues, or emergency, always consult your veterinarian.