Beyond Belly Rubs: How Dog Play Creates Happiness

Do dogs need to play with other dogs to create happiness? After offering dog playgroups for 25 years, we can say yes!

Most dogs are much happier if they get regular access to dog play with friends. Studies have shown that dogs interacting with other dogs had lower cortisol levels, a stress-related hormone. Social interaction with other dogs can help reduce stress in dogs.

Dogs prefer to spend time with other dogs over humans. Experts found that while they were happy interacting with humans, dogs were likelier to seek out play with other dogs. Dogs can learn the game's rules more efficiently and get into the physicality of playing with other dogs. Humans are likely to stop the fun or get tired before another dog would.

Dogs can get lonely and show signs of depression without social interaction. These signs are weight gain, lower food drive, sleeping more, and lack of interest in their toys.

There are many benefits beyond happiness for dogs having access to dog play.

Socialization:

Can you imagine being around your friends and not knowing what language they speak? Use it or lose it is a mantra for anyone learning a new language. Dogs need to learn how to speak dog by understanding body language and navigating social cues. Without regular access to friends, dogs will lose this skill.

Regulating Emotions:

Of course, dogs have many emotions. Without the mental and physical stimulation that playing with friends provides, dogs can become hyperactive or sedate. They may also get overly excited during normal events like walks in the neighborhood or when you come home from work. Unregulated emotions can lead to pulling and barking.

Confidence Building:

Positive playgroup experiences with other dogs can boost a dog's confidence and self-esteem. As dog owners, you can appreciate this as your dog will behave better in public and at home.

Compatibility during dog play leads to increased happiness.

Not every human likes every human; the same is true for dogs. In your dog's life, they may have only a handful of super close friends whose play style and attitude match perfectly. Access to dog behavior experts can help guide your dog's ability to make lasting friendships. Wags & Wiggles provides many different playgroup options to facilitate this process. The best part is you get report card photos and videos to follow the journey.

Find your dog's perfect friend through dog play.

Wags & Wiggles offers a free meet-and-greet process. Not only do you get to meet us, but we also get to know your dog. Will your dog enjoy a calmer playgroup or a party-all-day group of friends? Our certified trainers often use their dogs to break the ice and encourage dogs to find their play style. Behavior experts have the patience and knowledge to unleash your dog's playful side.

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