Find Their Fun: Choosing the Best Play Style for Your Dog

by | Albany Dog Trainer

Find Their Fun: Choosing the Best Play Style for Your Dog

No two dogs play exactly the same. Some want to chase a flying ball into the horizon, others would rather wrestle with a rope toy or solve a puzzle for treats. Understanding your dog’s preferred play style ensures they feel fulfilled, confident, and connected to you.

Play isn’t “one size fits all” — it’s personal. When you discover what makes your dog’s tail wag the hardest, you unlock better exercise, stronger bonds, and fewer behavior challenges.

Let’s explore the different types of play and how to match them to your dog’s unique instincts. 🎮🐾

1️⃣ Fetch & Chase: Born to Run

Some dogs seem like they were designed for fetch — retrievers, herding breeds, and high-energy mixes often fall into this category.

Why fetch-lovers thrive on chase play:

  • Boosts athletic ability

  • Satisfies motion-driven instincts

  • Burns energy fast

  • Builds focus and recall skills

Try:

  • Balls, frisbees, flirt poles

  • Long-distance throwing tools

  • Safe fenced yards or dog fields

⚠️ Caution:
Avoid repetitive high-impact leaps for puppies or dogs with joint concerns.

2️⃣ Tug Play: Strength, Strategy & Bonding

If your dog grabs a toy and invites you with a growl (a happy one!), tug may be their favorite game.

Why tug builds confidence:

  • Encourages controlled excitement

  • Strengthens muscles and grip

  • Teaches impulse control & commands like “drop it”

  • Enhances teamwork between dog & human

Perfect for:
Terriers, bully breeds, and dogs who like to “hold and win.”

✨ Tip: Let your dog “win” sometimes — it boosts motivation and pride!

3️⃣ Wrestling & Roughhousing: Social Players

Some dogs love to wrestle and body-bump with trusted playmates. This is often seen in confident, social pups — but requires supervision.

Benefits include:

  • Learning boundaries

  • Building social flexibility

  • Burning mental and physical energy together

✅ Only allow with well-matched dogs
✅ Stop play if body language shifts to tension or fear

4️⃣ Chewing & Solo Play: Independent Fun

Not all dogs love high-action games. For chewers and problem-solvers:

Great activities include:

  • Puzzle feeders and treat toys

  • Durable chews and lick mats

  • Snuffle mats for scent work

This style supports:

  • Calming behavior

  • Self-soothing

  • Focus and mental stamina

Ideal for shy dogs, seniors, or breeds that use their mouths to work (e.g., hounds).

5️⃣ Sniff & Search: For the Scent-Driven Soul

Dogs experience their world through their noses. Some find sniffing more rewarding than physical play.

Try:

  • Hide-and-seek with treats

  • Scent trails in the yard

  • Nose-work activities and sniffari walks

This builds confidence and satisfies ancient hunting instincts — mentally tired = good tired.

How to Tell What Your Dog Loves Most

Watch their reactions:

  • Which toy do they bring back to you?

  • Do they perk up at motion?

  • Do they initiate tug or chase?

  • Do they explore with their nose before anything else?

Let your dog lead — they’re the expert in what’s fun!

Mix It Up for Maximum Joy

Dogs benefit from variety! Combining styles ensures:
✅ Full-body exercise
✅ Mental enrichment
✅ Emotional fulfillment

A healthy weekly routine might include:

  • Fetch for cardio

  • Tug for bonding

  • Sniff games for stimulation

  • Puzzle toys for quiet downtime

Final Thought

The best play is the kind your dog chooses. When you pay attention to their preferences, you’re not only encouraging exercise — you’re respecting who they are. And that makes your connection stronger with every game you play.

Find their joy — then play it again! 🥎💛