How to Tell When Dog Play Is Healthy—or Heading in the Wrong Direction

Not all dog play is harmless—learn how to spot healthy interaction versus warning signs

Your weekly dose of dog-infused happiness View this email in your browser May 7th, 2026 Dog Play Isn’t Always Harmless—Here’s What Most Owners Get Wrong Healthy dog play can look chaotic, loud, and even aggressive—but not all of it is harmless. Learn how to tell when it’s healthy fun and when it’s crossing the line into stress or conflict. Discover the good, bad, and ugly signs you're missing.  Photo Victoria Antonova/Shutterstock Share Tweet Forward Pin 🎉 GIVEAWAY! 🎉 Win 1 of 5 $100 gift cards for Ollie B. Good, makers of high-quality, BPA-free, food-grade silicone slow feeders and enrichment tools for dogs and cats! ENTER HERE Are Dog Parks Actually Bad For Dogs? A New York Times opinion piece was titled “Dog Parks Are Great for People. Too Bad They’re Terrible for Dogs.” But you’ve got a high-energy dog who requires plenty of exercise. Should you steer clear of the dog park? It depends. More Goodness From Modern Dog  DIY Dip-Dyed Ombre Dog Leash Tutorial Create a colourful, custom rope dog leash with this easy DIY ombre dip-dye technique—affordable, durable, and perfect for stylish pups Our Dogs of the Week Once hitting 40 mph on the track, Lindy, Lola, and Shiloh, retired racing Greyhounds, now race for fun, wrapped in warmth and love! Submit your dog. EDITOR'S PICK Your Dog Walk Companion Meet your new walk-day essential! The MAVPAC Mini Belt Bag is the hands-free companion every dog parent needs—built-in treat pouch, poop bag dispenser, leash clips, and more!   — Join Our Communities! — Website Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest Copyright © 2026 Modern Dog Magazine Inc., All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opt-ed in to our enewsletter through our website, through a giveaway contest, or via your subscription.* *This is a sponsored section, which means if you purchase, Modern Dog may get something in return. Thanks! For information on advertising, get in touch. unsubscribe from this list    update subscription preferences