Which signals constitute play signals?

Which signals constitute play signals?

• A. Play bow, relaxed mouth, soft body and tail, role reversal, frequent breaks, and fluid motion.
• B. Sit, stay.
• C. Bark loudly.
• D. Jump.

Answer: (A)

Play signals are how dogs invite another dog to join in a friendly, non-threatening interaction. The list that includes a play bow, relaxed mouth, soft body and tail, role reversal, frequent breaks, and fluid motion captures the whole package of cues dogs use to indicate playful intent. The play bow is the classic opener—front end lowered with the hips up—telling the other dog, "Let’s play." A relaxed mouth and a soft, loose body and tail show there’s no aggression or tension. Role reversal signals that one dog is inviting the other to take the lead or coordinate the play, while frequent breaks keep the interaction enjoyable and give both dogs a chance to check in. Fluid motion throughout suggests ongoing, cooperative activity rather than a rushed or forced display. Sitting and staying are basic obedience commands and do not communicate a playful invitation. Barking loudly can signal alert or threat, not playful intent. Jumping is a high-energy action that can be either playful or inappropriate depending on context, and it doesn’t convey a coordinated set of signals for fun.

Play signals are how dogs invite another dog to join in a friendly, non-threatening interaction. The list that includes a play bow, relaxed mouth, soft body and tail, role reversal, frequent breaks, and fluid motion captures the whole package of cues dogs use to indicate playful intent. The play bow is the classic opener—front end lowered with the hips up—telling the other dog, "Let’s play." A relaxed mouth and a soft, loose body and tail show there’s no aggression or tension. Role reversal signals that one dog is inviting the other to take the lead or coordinate the play, while frequent breaks keep the interaction enjoyable and give both dogs a chance to check in. Fluid motion throughout suggests ongoing, cooperative activity rather than a rushed or forced display.

Sitting and staying are basic obedience commands and do not communicate a playful invitation. Barking loudly can signal alert or threat, not playful intent. Jumping is a high-energy action that can be either playful or inappropriate depending on context, and it doesn’t convey a coordinated set of signals for fun.