Before they became the kings of our couches, many dogs were bred to help with specific tasks. In short, they worked. Times and breeds have changed, but those instincts haven’t gone away. So how do you help your canine companion fulfill his “job” even though he’s unemployed? The answer is pretty simple — playtime. Every dog has a preferred style of play, and understanding those dog play styles is the key to keeping them happy and healthy.
THE GUIDE TO PET PLAY STYLES
Happy Hunters
Their ancestors might have helped track down and retrieve actual prey, but these skilled dogs are totally content retrieving a tennis ball. They’re rugged jocks who were bred to keep up with a hunt, so they need lots of exercise and activity to satisfy their prey drive.
Breeds:
Spaniels, Retrievers, Pointers, Hounds, Terriers (including Jack Russell Terriers), Setters
Their idea of a fun time:
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Fetch and outside play at the dog park
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Running in a pack with suitable playmates
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Diving and swimming
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Searching for hidden items
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Playing with interactive toys
Chuckit! Ball Launcher
Balls
Interactive Toys
Herd Nerds
Don’t laugh, these brainy breeds were born to be in charge. When herding a group, their ancestors acted as hall monitors and made sure everyone behaved. The result? Extremely intelligent dogs that need lots of mental stimulation and exercise — otherwise, they might actually try to herd you. Seriously, these overachievers are prone to giving themselves jobs if there’s nothing else to do, and that can lead to trouble. Herders can also be a bit cautious with other canines and hesitant about play sessions, so understanding their body language is essential.
Breeds:
Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collies, Corgis, Shepherds, Heelers
Their idea of a fun time:
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Tossing a disc toy around
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Learning how to actually herd
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Earning food from treat-dispensing toys
Throwing Discs
Plant Dog Orbee-Tuff Mazee
Soft & Chewy Dog Treats
Team Players
These smarties aren’t just in it for the treats — they love working together with you. Bred for guarding, pulling sleds, and search and rescue, they thrive when included in your activities. Their style of play often involves cooperation, though they can show a stubborn streak.
Breeds:
Boxer, Doberman, Mastiff, Husky, Rottweiler, Newfoundland, German Shepherd
Their idea of a fun time:
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Joining your run or bike ride
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Putting on their leash for a long walk
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Tug-of-war and play fighting with rules for appropriate play
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Solving interactive toy puzzles
Leashes
Easy Walk Collars
Puzzle Toys
Masters of Chill
It’s not that these guys don’t want to play — they’re just really more into relaxing than running around. Most toy and small breeds were bred as companions, not workers. And senior or small dogs may prefer gentle play styles that don’t involve body slamming or roughhousing.
Breeds:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, small terriers, Shih Tzus, Pomeranians, Bichon Frise, Pugs, Miniature and Toy Poodles, and senior dogs of any breed
Their idea of a fun time:
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Discovering food in treat-dispensing toys
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Gently tossing around a plush toy
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Challenging their mind with interactive toys
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Relaxed play sessions with calm playmates
Treat Dispensing Toys
Plush Toys
Interactive Toys
DOES YOUR PET NOT LOVE PLAY TIME?
Some dogs need a little extra encouragement, especially if they are still learning appropriate play. Dog training or training classes can help puppies that engage in play biting, mouthing, or don’t yet understand the play bow. For others, simply finding the right toy, play group, or suitable playmate makes all the difference. And remember, some dogs just want to cuddle with a plush toy, because that is what makes them happy.