What is the difference between playful and fighting behaviour in dogs?

What is the difference between playful and fighting behaviour in dogs?

Often we look at our dogs in horror when they start to play rough, it's easy to mistake their play with actual aggression, especially when the growls start and the teeth come out.

This is normal, but when they play they engage in a number of behaviours that are different from those they display during a fight.

Playful behaviour typically involves:

Usually having a relaxed, loose body posture. They may wag their tails, pant, and jump around.

Making playful sounds like yips, growls, and barks that are typically high-pitched and short in duration.

Taking turns chasing, play-biting, and rolling around with each other.

Self-handicapping or hold back their full strength and energy during play to avoid injuring their playmates.

Playing with relaxed, open mouths and tend to bite gently or not at all.

On the other hand, when dogs are fighting, their behaviour is more aggressive and intense.

Fighting behaviour often includes:

A stiff, tense body posture. They may hold their tails high and erect, and their ears may be pinned back.

Loud, intense vocalisations, often barking or growling in a deep, low-pitched tone.

Not taking turns. Dogs who are fighting do not take turns, they may bite and attack relentlessly.

Using their full strength and energy to inflict serious harm on their opponent.

Biting hard and using their jaws aggressively.

It's important to understand the difference between play and fighting in dogs to ensure their safety and well-being.

If you're unsure whether your dogs are playing or fighting, it's best to separate them until they have calmed down.