18/10/2026
We were all taught the same lie.
If they're not fighting, they're playing.
So we stand there, watching something that feels "off".
A bit too intense. All a wee bit too much.
One dog ducks behind the bench while the other keeps coming.
And we tell ourselves "they're just playing" because we don't want to be "that" person. The overprotective one.
So I need you to hear this:
No dog has ever been harmed by you stopping play too early.
Not one. Ever.
But I've met hundreds who were harmed because no one stopped it in time.
Here's what no one really talks about enough,
Sometimes it's not that obvious to see the difference between playing and an issue grumbling and bubbling away.
Especially if you don't really know the other dog involved.
So can I give you permission to do something?
Trust the "hmm".
That little feeling in your gut that says "that's a bit much".
That's not you being overbearing or overprotective.
That IS you reading dog body language. That's the skill developing.
You don't need to be 100% sure to step in. If you're unsure, step in anyway.
Call your dog.
Make some space. Give them both a break.
The playful ones will shake it off and often re-engage together, that's how you know it WAS play.
You will never ruin a friendship by pausing play.
You might just save one.
