Yes, dogs can meet and learn to play together! But remember, if the leaders are not telling them how to meet and play, their instincts will tell them how to do it, and things could get confrontational. Establishing good meeting habits is important and should be given special attention as a handler. Have your greeting etiquette override your dog’s genetic instincts!
(Check out Dog Socialization: How to Introduce Your Pup to Social Training)
Interaction Tips
Dogs do not need to play rough with each other to enjoy being in each other’s company. Teach them that other dogs are not a toy! They should learn to play with (inanimate) toys when with each other.
Don’t let your dog play with or even meet every dog he sees. This promotes an expectation that can cause your dog to become too excitable and hyper each time he sees another dog. This expectation from your dog can lead to hardship in managing, excessive barking, and uncontrollable pulling on a leash.
If your dog acts like this around other dogs, he can accidentally provoke defensive aggression in them. These dogs are sensitive to body language, and your rowdy dog’s approach will appear out-of-control and chaotic. Some dogs will try to control your dog (with aggression or barking) if you don’t appear to be controlling him.
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