Dog socialisation

Why is it good for your dog to play with other dogs?

By Afonso Brito and Irene
Updated · 3 min read

Quick answer

Playing with other dogs helps your dog burn energy, learn to communicate, control the strength of its bite and gain confidence in new situations. Dogs that play regularly with compatible partners tend to be calmer at home and react better to other dogs on the street.

Key points

  • Play is how dogs naturally learn to "speak dog".
  • One good playmate is worth more than lots of encounters with strangers.
  • Free play tires a dog out more than a walk: it works body and mind at the same time.
  • It helps prevent fears and reactivity, especially in puppies.
  • Compatibility (size, energy, play style) matters more than breed.

What does a dog learn when it plays with other dogs?

It learns to read and send signals. When a dog bites too hard, the other one backs off or stops playing, and that’s how it learns to measure its strength. It also learns to ask for breaks, invite play and respect it when another dog says “enough”. If you want to learn to read those signals too, we explain them in how to tell if your dog is playing or fighting.

Does playing with other dogs tire a dog more than walking?

Usually, yes. Running, chasing and negotiating with another dog take physical effort and concentration. That’s why a short spell of good play can leave your dog more relaxed than a long walk on the lead through the city.

Does it help prevent behaviour problems?

It can help a lot. A dog with no way to burn energy or socialise tends to get bored, bark more or pull on the lead when it sees other dogs. Regular play with familiar dogs gives it an outlet and teaches it that other dogs aren’t a threat.

Do all dogs enjoy playing with others?

No. Some dogs, especially adults or dogs with bad experiences, prefer walking next to other dogs without playing. That’s socialisation too. What matters is respecting their pace and finding partners that suit their personality. You’ll find the full plan, by age, in our dog socialisation guide.

Is it better to play at the dog park or with dogs it knows?

Dog areas are useful for running, but you’ll meet unfamiliar dogs there with very different styles. Playing with dogs it already knows is usually safer and more fun; to find them, follow the five steps to find friends for your dog. If you’re looking for a spot, Barcelona City Council publishes a map of the dog areas in every neighbourhood; we summarise it in our guide to Barcelona with a dog.

The barquis experience

Italian greyhounds play mostly by running and chasing each other, with very little contact. That’s why our dog’s best playmates have been other greyhounds and sighthounds from the neighbourhood: dogs that play the way he does. More than how much he plays, what counts is who he plays with. To get an idea of whether two dogs suit each other by size and distance, use the Buddy Match dog compatibility calculator.

Checklist: is this a good playmate?

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Sources

Frequently asked questions

At what age can my dog start playing with other dogs?

Puppies can start as soon as your vet gives the go-ahead based on their vaccination schedule. At first, it's best with calm, vaccinated adult dogs.

How long should my dog play with other dogs?

It depends on age and energy. Several short sessions a week usually work better than one long, exhausting one. Stop before your dog gets overexcited.

Is it OK for my small dog to play with big dogs?

It can be, if the big dog is gentle and knows how to hold back, but watch closely. A fall or a knock can injure a small dog, even in play.

What if my dog doesn't want to play with other dogs?

Don't force it. Walking calmly alongside other dogs helps too. If you notice constant fear, talk to a dog trainer.

Does playing with other dogs replace walks?

No. Play complements walks: the walk gives sniffing and routine, play gives intense exercise and contact with other dogs. The ideal is to combine both.

Find playmates for your dog

On barquis you'll find dogs of similar breeds and sizes in your neighbourhood, and you can meet their owners at the nearest park.

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