
"How Play Affects Dog Well-Being: Behavioral Phases and the Importance of Negative Feedback"
Mariasole FerranteShare
The article highlights the importance of play in a dog's life for its psychophysical well-being and how the management of play, especially its conclusion, is crucial to avoid stress and problematic behaviors. Three behavioral phases in dog play are explored, which correspond to those of hunting: the appetitive phase (activation and motivation), the consummatory phase (active interaction and pleasure), and the gratifying phase (recovery and relaxation).
Negative feedback, which helps the dog return to a state of equilibrium after excitement, is essential to prevent stress and frustration. If the dog does not experience this feedback, it can remain in a state of hyperstimulation, with harmful effects on physical and mental health.
Furthermore, the article highlights the importance of adapting the game to the specific motivation of the dog breed, to avoid that it becomes fixated on a single phase and does not complete the game cycle, causing frustration and stress. For example, a Border Collie could get stuck in the chasing phase, without reaching the satisfaction phase.
Finally, the correct release of negative feedback, which reduces the levels of hormones such as adrenaline and dopamine, is essential to maintain the dog's psychophysical balance and prevent compulsive behavior or anxiety.
You can find the full article HERE .