The 8 Basic Rules for Puppy Playdates

The 8 Basic Rules for Puppy Playdates

Puppy playdates can be enjoyable for everyone involved. You and other owners can watch as your four legged family members make new furry friends and the puppies love all the pleasures of sniffing, nipping and chasing their fellow canine companions. However, there are some basic rules that need to be followed if your puppy play dates are going to be a success. Here are the 8 basic puppy playdate rules:

1. Leave your leash at home. Puppy playdates are a great way to socialize your new pup and this is best done without a leash. If you feel that your pooch is not trained well enough to be let free, find a puppy playgroup that is held in a fenced area where even if your pup decides to run, he will not get far.
2. Expect the unexpected. While participating in puppy playdates, it is important as the owner to expect, and accept the unexpected. There is a good chance that while playing your pup could roll in another dog’s mess, ruin new toys, mark territory and even eat the inedible.
3. Rough play is normal. Puppy playdates will often include a good rough wrestle or two between puppy playmates. Try hard not to interfere, and recognize that even if your pup seems to be bullied, it is all in the name of good fun.
4. Don’t combine playing with training. Many new puppy owners will make the mistake of using their puppy playdates as an opportunity to train their dog. This is not wise, or productive. Your pup will not be interested in you when surrounded by new energetic friends. Training sessions are best kept for times when you will have your pup’s full attention.
5. Let nature takes its course. Though some puppy actions can be embarrassing they’re all completely normal and natural for your pup. Sniffing, biting…and yes even humping are all part of puppy playdates and should not be considered wrong or rude.
6. Keep your opinion to yourself. Owning and training a puppy is very similar to raising children. It is wise to keep your parenting advice and opinions to yourself. After all, what fun is a puppy playdate if the owners can’t get along?
7. Bring enough for the class, or leave it at home. You’ve probably heard this before while in school, but the same goes for puppy playdates. Food and treats can cause aggression when only given to one or two puppies.
8. And finally the last and most important rule; have fun! Even when your puppy is small he will be aware of your mood and behavior. If you are unable to relax and enjoy your puppy playdates then neither will he.