What are the signs of "good" dog play?

Question

We are trying to socialize our 9 month old mini schnauzer and he doesn't get to interact or play with many other dogs. (Most of his socialization thus far is in puppy class where they are not permitted to play). How do I know when a dog is "playing" with another dog and when they are being too aggressive? I am concerned when he plays with smaller dogs he may be too rough because he doesn't know better yet....

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This was at my house with a friends toy yorkie....

Answer 1

when they bend forward into a play bow, and have thier ears at ease or to the side, also when they stand tall and prance its good stuff
most likely a 9month old will not be too rough and if he is the other dog will let him know,

relax and be supportive

Answer 2

It differs from dog to dog, but here are a few:

1. One or both dogs roll over and show their stomach
2. No yelping in response to play biting
3. Wagging tails
4. No teeth showing, aggressive growling

Dogs don't perceive size differences as much as age. Puppies of the same age will play together, regardless of breed or size, because they are at the same stage of development. They usually will let each other know if things are getting out of hand.

If your dog was left with its littermates long enough as a young pup, it probably already has developed some bite inhibition, but definitely keep an eye out for bad behavior, just in case.

Answer 3

If your dogs ears are up - it is ok..
Things to watch for:
One dog placing his neck over the other dogs neck.. a move of dominance / end session.
The ears are pinned back and they have a look of stress on the face... end session.
One dog will just lay down and not move.. time to end the play session.

Puppies will usually work things out.. however, I have a dog agressive 8 month old that no one wants to play with any more.
It is up to us to protect our dogs... especially the little ones. Before German Shepherds I had little Maltese so I know how you feel.
Some dogs play and others don't.
GOOD LUCK

Answer 4

Good dog playing can get very rough. A good sign to watch are hair standing on their back. I honestly don't know what this would like with a mini-schnauzer.

Nipping at the neck, wrestling, baring teeth are all not necessarily signs things are escalating. Watch for which dog is dominate. The submissive one will often roll over on their back. Two dominate dogs can lead to serious problems. Dogs will usually figure out who is dominate by themselves. Things can get rough before this is settled and fights are almost inevitable when they can't figure it out.

Are you doing this at a dog park? Be careful at dog parks as there a lot of strange dogs who don't know each other. It is like a big combustible mixture waiting to explode. Our dog got bitten at a dog park for chasing another dog's ball and that dog turned on him. We won't ever go again. Just too many strange dogs and irresponsible owners. Dogs are living animals... no one can control them 100% of the time.

I'd recommend finding a group in your neighborhood and meet on a regular basis.