3. Recognizing Playful Behavior



It is crucial to differentiate between mouthing and aggression when observing dogs. During mouth wrestling, dogs exhibit a joyful demeanor, displaying signs of happiness such as bouncing or lying down to give their playmate an advantage. The intention is to engage in a playful game rather than aggressive behavior. Additionally, the roles in mouth wrestling can be switched between dogs, promoting a balanced play experience and fostering a sense of fairness.
Understanding the context and body language of the dogs involved helps discern between harmless play and true aggression, ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants. By recognizing the distinctive characteristics of mouth wrestling, we can appreciate the positive nature of this behavior and encourage healthy social interactions among dogs.