Spring time and play time always seem to go together, whether it’s lambs frolicking in the fields or our dogs racing across the grass. That makes it a good time to review the structure of appropriate play—never better illustrated than by Leonbergers, Vikahn and Yulee. Watch how father and son pause frequently (which prevents over arousal) and how bigger, stronger Vikahn self handicaps to avoid overwhelming Yulee. (You can also see a video of them playing when Yulee was a puppy on my blog. Thank you Vic Neumann for providing such a great video!)
Don’t forget, play may be charming and youthful, but it’s important too! As Dr. Seuss wrote “It’s fun to have fun but you have to know how.”
You can read more about the benefits of play and how to ensure that it enhances the relationship between you and your dog in my half day seminar Dog Play, or in the book, Play Together, Stay Together: Happy and Healthy Play Between People and Dogs.
Want to learn more about dogs? Look here for a treasure trove of Patricia’s articles, blogs and videos about dog training, canine health and behavior, and solving behavior problems. Includes links to other helpful resources.
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