Why does my dog play with his teeth out?

It can be a joy to watch your dogs enjoy themselves when they play; however, it can be scary when they show their teeth out, but don't worry. They usually do this when they get overexcited. Sometimes, it can also be a result of a lack of socialization. It may even be because of their breeds. 

Why do some dogs look aggressive when playing?

Overstimulation or excitement

When your dog is overstimulated, it can be a reason why they will look aggressive while they are playing. 

Like other animals, dogs can get overexcited when playing, and this can turn to them showing some behaviors similar to an aggressive dog.

However, as dog owners, we should be able to read into situations and not jump to conclusions immediately. 

We should be familiar with their behavior, especially when they play. 

If your dog has not undergone any proper training, or learning the proper etiquette when playing, there is a high probability that they show acts that are usually perceived as aggressive to most people.

These acts can usually be:

• Barking.
• Snapping.
• Lunging.

This is why it is our responsibility to recognize whether your dog is showing some behavior of true aggression or is overexcited and is enjoying so much in their play.

Breed characteristics and play style

Dog breeds can also play a factor in why your dog looks aggressive when they play. 

Unfortunately, this is pretty usual, especially with some specific breeds, such as:

• Terriers.
• Bully breeds.
• Herding dogs.

Due to how they look and their size, their actions can be usually misinterpreted as an act of aggression when they are playing.

Dog breeds mentioned can usually be intense, as they are known for their roughhousing, vocalizations, and having that assertive body language that not all dogs have.

Be mindful that these behaviors do not always mean aggression, even when they are more intimidating than other dogs. 

It is why it is pretty important that we can differentiate a true aggressive behavior and being playful.

Lack of socialization

When your dogs do not have enough experience when it comes to socializing with other dogs, they can develop behaviors that appear to be aggressive when they play. 

Dogs need to learn to have proper play etiquette, but less exposure to other dogs can be detrimental to their development.

They can usually show behaviors such as mouthing, body slamming, or excessive vocalizations when playing, and these can be perceived as being aggressive by many.

Dogs with bad experiences in the past can also develop behaviors that can be seen as aggressive to other dogs and people.

They may seem defensive or reactive when they are playing, and usually, they growl or snap as a way of protecting themselves. 

How do you tell if dogs are playing or being aggressive?

The best way to tell is to observe their body language.

When dogs are playful, they may be loose in their movements.

They may wag their tails, make bouncy movements, or make some frequent pauses.

However, dogs show aggressive behavior; they are usually stiffer and have tense body language.

They also stare directly with raised hackles, and they show the intent of targeting vulnerable areas of their target.