This piece first appeared in the April 11, 2023 issue of our newsletter.
We often hear about “play styles”, but is there evidence for that concept? The truth is, there is no evidence for play styles in dogs. In play a dog is not limited to the vague and limited behaviors that have been behaviors that fall under “play styles”.
Instead, play describes interactions that do not have a specific function; it is voluntary, rewarding, and is repeated during the lifespan of the animal - as long as it is consenting in an environment conducive to play. Psychologist Gordon M. Burghardt’s five requirements of play are, (1) play is not fully functional;(2) it is self-rewarding; (3) play differs in structure and/or timing from the adult, “serious” form of the behavior; (4) play behaviors are often repeated, but not stereotypically; and (5) play is initiated when the animal is relaxed with no immediate threats (Burghardt, 2010).
Rather than labeling dogs as having a “play style”, we focus on healthy inter-dog interactions by facilitating ethical playgroups that are devoted to providing dogs with opportunities to consent, physical and mental safety, and avoid the use of aversives (Shelter Playgroup Alliance, 2019).
Good play in dogs begins with dogs with relaxed body language, a low-stress environment (Burghardt 2010), and the dog consenting to inter-dog play through assessment and management by the handler(s). Dogs with good inter-dog social skills will be able to negotiate appropriate play and engage in good communication with each other (Shelter Playgroup Alliance, 2019).
So then, what should good play include? Relaxed body musculature, soft tail wags, curved spines, bent elbows, and play bows. There should be frequent breaks in play - every 30 seconds or so. While dogs are engaging in play, like wrestling, chasing, and running - there should be space in between the dog. For example, while wrestling, dogs are not actually biting all the way down. In playgroups, dogs should be placed in dyads - good play is most often between two dogs who are of the same size, ability, and play preference (Kaufer, 2014; KikoPup, 2021).
The play yard does not have to be perfect, but it should be a relaxed environment where you can safely manage a playgroup (Shelter Playgroup Alliance, 2019). Continue to assess and manage play, and also to reinforce behaviors because, even in play, dogs are always learning! To learn more about play, check out the SPA YouTube channel!
References:
Burghardt, G. M. (2010). The comparative reach of play and brain perspective, evidence, and implications. 338-356.
Kaufer, M. (2014) Canine Play Behavior: The Science of Dogs at Play.
KikoPup (2021). Learn about dog play from expert Mara Velez [Video]. YouTube.
Shelter Playgroup Alliance. (2019) Interdog Playgroup Guidelines.
Comments