If you’re a dog parent, you’ve likely seen your fur baby get a little too rambunctious when playing. They jump on guests or get “mouthy” with kids. They bare their teeth at other canines. Many of these behaviors are natural and do not indicate any underlying aggression. But how do you tell when play is becoming too rough? Your veterinarian recommends looking for a few tell-tale signs.

When Is Playtime Out of Hand?

Puppies learn to rough-house very early on. They chase, wrestle, growl, and nip at littermates. As they get older, behaviors such as leaping, bowing in “challenge,” soft-mouthed biting, and even growling act as invitations to play. Veterinarians point out that your dog’s body language is always the surest way to tell if they are becoming too aggressive. Relaxed energy is best. Playful dogs bounce instead of slink. Their tails are raised. Their mouths stay open.

Above all, your dog should look like they want to have more fun rather than escape. If their movements become stiff and wary, it’s a sign they feel scared or threatened. Their gaze may become fixed. Their ears may pin back flat against their head. Their mouth may clamp closed. Their tail may tuck and their growls may become low and rumbling. Veterinarians warn that you should be on the watch for this behavior in other dogs you encounter as well so you can avoid a potentially dangerous situation.

How to Calm Your Pup Down

Until your dog learns otherwise, it’ll try to play with everyone as if they’re rowdy littermates. Therefore, start and maintain obedience training while they’re young. The ability to follow fundamental commands like “stop” and “sit” is critical to ending rowdy behavior before it gets out of hand. This should be done in a commanding, not an emotional tone of voice. Once a dog is worked up, loud, startling vocalizations will only scare or challenge them, making that overly aggressive behavior even worse.

Instead, after calming getting the dog’s attention, redirect that behavior to an appropriate target. Their favorite chew toy won’t mind. Try hiding it so that it becomes a fun game. Additionally, if you have kids or guests who don’t know as much about dog-whispering as you, warm them that rough games with your dog can get them riled up.

Dog parents quickly learn to recognize unusual behavior in their pets. Whether your dog is less energetic than normal, has been injured in play or a fight with another animal, or is due for a routine check-up, top-quality care is nearby. A-4 Animal Hospital in Lincoln, NE, specializes in the expert, loving care of pets. For emergency service, pet boarding information, or to schedule an appointment with a trusted veterinarian, call (402) 475-2282. Visit them online for service details.