It might seem obvious to say, but humans shape puppies’ future play behaviors.
The interactions the dog had with its human caregivers during its formative months affects it in later life. (A puppy treated with kindness and attention will likely grow to exhibit friendly and playful behavior.)
Play bonding is an very important and deeply enjoyable ingredient in this care.
Playing together strengthens human-dog relationships. When humans and dogs engage in fun activities together, they form a deep, symbiotic connection. Playing games can help facilitate a better understanding between the two species, promoting a more caring and loving relationship.
- Humans universally recognize and enjoy watching dog play. Regardless of culture or region, humans have a built-in ability to observe and draw enjoyment from the playful antics of dogs. This enjoyment might be based on the amusing and joyous behavior displayed by canines during play, which are instinctively perceived and appreciated by humans across the globe.
- Human-dog play interactions involve physical contact and touch. This is a crucial part of the dynamic between humans and dogs, involving more than just fun and games. Physical interactions during playtimes, like petting or active playing, build trust and strengthen the bond between the two.
- Mirror neurons contribute to humans empathizing with playing dogs (Bauer 2006, Rizzolatti & Sinigaglia 2008). These neurons, first discovered in the premotor and parietal cortex of the brain, are crucial for empathy. They are the reason we feel a pang of sadness when we see a dog whimper or a surge of happiness when we see it playing and wagging its tail.
- Humans are neurologically ‘equipped’ to empathize with mammals and birds (Reichholf 2009). Simply put, our brains are pre-wired to understand and connect with other species, particularly birds and mammals. This neurological hardwiring makes it possible for us to form deep emotional connections with our pets.
Impact of Human Interaction on Dogs’ Play Behaviour
The frequency of play between two individuals is a measure of
their mutual affection.
Gunter Tembrock
According to research by Feddersen-Petersen (2001), examining the contrast in play behaviours, dogs raised alongside humans display more vigorous and prolonged play bonding activity compared with dogs raised only with other dogs.
The nurturing environment of a human family influences the range of a dog’s play activity and sets the stage for its future preferences.
Also their choice of play as adults is influenced by the encouragement they receive from their human companions during their puppyhood.
Frequent Human-Dog Games and their Role in Play Bonding
A common repertoire of human-dog games includes fetch, tug-of-war, chase, hide and seek, and rough-and-tumble.
These games engage dogs physically and mentally, enhancing the trust bond between them and their human counterparts. The basis of successful human-dog play relies on the clear transmission and mutual understanding of play signals.
Over time, humans and dogs even develop unique play signals, tailored exclusively for their interactions. These exclusive play signals and movements evolve during the dogs’ time living with their human families.
Physical Contact in Games: Risks and Trust
Physical contact in play, however, depends on a strong trust bond between humans and dogs. This trust is critical when engaging in play that involves direct contact or other high-risk elements. Such high-risk play elements become common in long-established human-dog relationships.
A well-established relationship brings with it an understanding of signals, movements, and boundaries, allowing both parties to participate in play that otherwise might be considered risky.
Do Dogs Pay More Attention to Humans Than Other Dogs?
Dr. Friederike Range conducted a study in 2009 which highlighted an interesting facet of canine behavior – dogs pay more attention to humans than they do to other dogs.
Her study demonstrated that our canine friends are particularly alert and responsive to their human companions. dogs seem to be more aware and receptive to human behavior whether it’s during playtime, meal times, or just a relaxed day at home.
Whether it’s due to their domesticated background or is it a feature innate in all canines, further studies may reveal.
The deep bond between dogs and humans, established over thousands of years, is reflected in everyday canine behavior.
Puppy Playtime: Importance & Etiquette
Vocalization and visibility of toys play a pivotal role in initiating playtime. These factors create an environment that excites the dogs, and makes them eager to engage in play.
Puppies from good breeders are accustomed to regular play with their siblings. This daily socialization helps them develop the necessary communication and engagement skills.
However, when you’re having fun playing with the furball, you need to ensure that your play invitations don’t inadvertently reinforce unwanted puppy behaviors.
For example wrestling or tugging games can easily reinforce aggressive behavior. In the long term it’s better to opt for games that encourage obedience and good habits, such as fetch or hide and seek.
Puppies use tactics that they’ve learned from their litter to attempt to start play, and these behaviors can be both adorable and effective when used appropriately.
Understanding Human-Dog Play Interactions
Rooney and Bradshaw (2001) discussed the vital role human actions play in inviting dogs for a play session. For instance, humans can use play bows, lunges, or quick movements towards dogs to initiate play, with the type of play signal suggesting the game type to the dog.
Bekoff and Horowitz (2007) highlighted the need for clear play signals, eye contact, mirroring behavior, and balanced participation in a successful, engaging game, similar to a good conversation.
Eye contact and mirroring behavior are the hallmarks of rewarding interactions while balanced turn-taking and role reversal contribute to play success.
Notably, physical games like tug-of-war and rough-and-tumble do not negatively affect the human-dog relationship, as per Bradshaw and Rooney (2003).
Distinctive Dog Play Behaviors in Different Environments
Multi-dog households present a different play dynamic as dogs in such setups play more often with their owners than those in households with a single dog, as observed by Rooney, et al., 2000.
Contributions of Play Bonding to Dogs’ Learning and Well-being
Play proves an enriching experience for dogs, offering learning opportunities and stimulating positive emotions.
Dogs produce a unique laugh-like vocalization during play, which imitated by humans, can spark play. The great animal behaviorist Korand Lorenz in this book “Man Meets Dog” first theorised that dogs laugh as discussed in this interesting video on the subject:
Play is especially crucial for puppies, providing an optimal environment for their learning and growth. It serves as a self-reinforcing, self-motivating way for dogs to learn. A well-moderated play session also promotes positive social interaction, beneficial to both humans and dogs.