Good socialisation is essential for our barking buddies to grow in to well-behaved, friendly dogs. As such, hosting a dog play date is a great way to provide your dog with social stimulation and heaps of fun in a structured and safe way.
If you’ve been thinking about arranging a dog play date for a while but you haven’t got around to actually doing it, you’re not alone. It’s just one of those things; you know it’ll be great; your furry friend will have an awesome time, plus you’ll get to chat with other pet mamas and dads. What could go wrong?
Mmm…well, in actual fact, a lot could go wrong. So it pays to plan ahead and think wisely. Having said all that, dog play dates are wonderful things and you should totally give it a go (just carry on reading this post before you get started!).
How to host a dog play date
Hosting a dog play date is a great way to invite dogs to interact, play and burn off some of their energy.
However, even the most docile dog can turn into a crazy canine when placed in the wrong situation. So, appropriate planning is paramount to avoid injury and mayhem. Here are a few tips to ensure your dog play date runs smoothly.
Choose your playmates with care
If two dogs don’t like each other or they have miss-matched energy levels (for example, a puppy and a senior dog) then it could spell trouble. To prevent your play date from turning into a doggy disaster make sure you choose dogs that are well suited. Consider age, temperament, size and activity levels.
Pick an appropriate location
You might think hosting your dog play date in your own backyard is a great idea, but perhaps you should think twice about this. Some dogs can become quite territorial on their own turf and act out of character. To avoid this scenario, it might be best to choose a neutral location. Consider your local dog park or dog-friendly beach.
Slow and steady introductions
While you think a dog play date is a fab idea, some dogs might feel a little nervous to start. Ideally, have a chat with the pet owners before the day to ask that they keep their dog on the leash initially.
The dogs can sniff and greet each other and once they appear relaxed they can be let off their leashes.
Keep a close eye out
As the event organiser, it’s good to keep watch to ensure the play date runs to plan. Pay attention to potential signs of aggression. For example, baring teeth and growling, as well as bodily signs. The last thing you want to happen is a big dog fight, so make sure you always have one eye on the dogs.
Also, if you can see dogs are starting to tire or get agitated it may be time to call it a day. Don’t be afraid to wrap up your play date in the best interest of the dogs.
Treats and refreshments
For the pawfect dog play date, make sure you take along some doggy treats and plenty of fresh water (plus a few spare bowls or containers for dogs to drink from). Be sure to check with the owners before giving out any treats and watch out for signs of food aggression.
As we head into spring, this is the perfect time of year to throw a dog play date. Not only is it a great way to encourage your dog to enjoy the company of other four-legged friends, but also it’s a perfect way to meet local dog owners.
Dogs are a great way to break the ice with people and get to know other dog-loving folk. If all goes well, your doggy play date might just be the first of many social get-togethers for you and your fur pal.
Have you ever hosted or attended a dog play date? Was it a success?
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