Not all prompts will be suitable for all dog-human relationships. For example, some dogs may not feel safe playing, or they might have health issues limiting play. In addition, your surroundings need to be considered—play may not be safe on all surfaces (e.g., slippery surfaces, around other dogs who may get over-excited, etc.). Older dogs, dogs with health issues, and dogs who are uncomfortable with human touch or play may not enjoy some of these prompts. It is up to the participants to use their knowledge and understanding of their dogs to ensure safety.
Before beginning, please review these two websites, which outline common behaviours and expressions that dogs’ use when nervous and/or fearful:
https://ontariospca.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Canine-ladder-of-aggression.pdf
https://vcacanada.com/know-your-pet/signs-your-dog-is-stressed-and-how-to-relieve-it
If, at any point during the study, you or your dog are not enjoying the proposition, please do not continue.
[September 30 to October 13th]
Pay attention to where your dog is most playful. In what places do they initiate play? What time of day is it?
Collaboration request: Send in a list of places (don’t use identifiable landmarks) where your dog is most playful, as well as time periods during the day.
Collaboration Request Week Thirteen
My dog is less playful right after he has been out for a long lovely walk. if he hasn’t had any exercise, or interaction with me for hours, he is more likely to initiate play. I think he gets bored, and that’s when he asks for interaction. He is not as playful when he is actually out on one of his walks, although once in a while, if he runs too far ahead, when he is off leash, I will hide behind a tree, and he has great enjoyment, running back and trying to find me. He is less likely to initiate play when he is someplace he has never been before because he is then more interested in exploring the new area. Also, if we have visitors, she might be more interested in initiating play with someone new, who seems to be playful to him.