Play Aggression

What Are The Signs?:

• Biting or Nipping: Watch out for the dog that bites down hard on your hand or arm or nips at you when you run.
• Snatching or Guarding Toys: Be wary of a dog that growls if its toys are taken away or snatches them possessively when you approach.
• Refusal to Let Go: Dogs that won't relinquish their grip on a play object or lunge to grab it again if you force them to let go are moving toward play aggression.
• Growling (or a change in vocal tone): Some dogs are naturally vocal while playing. But an experienced listener can differentiate between aggressive sounds and harmless, playful vocalizations.

To Prevent Play Aggression:

• Make sure that your dog recognizes people as leaders, not littermates.
• Establish leadership through positively reinforced basic-obedience training.
• Teach your dog simple commands like "come" and "down" so you can maintain control over all your interactions with your dog, including play.
• Avoid games that involve direct physical contact, such as tug-of-war and wrestling.

When Playing With Your Dog:

• Periodically assert control by stopping the game and commanding your dog into a sit-stay.
• If your game involves a play object like a ball, tell your dog to "give" or
  "drop it." Stop the game and walk away if your dog refuses to comply.
• Be alert for signs that your dog is "testing" family members, particularly children.