Learn how to play with your dog

Scratch the dog's ears.If the dog is done sniffing your hand and doesn't seem hostile or angry, reach out from the side of her head and scratch behind her ears. This is a good place to start petting a dog who doesn't know you.
Learn where the dog likes being touched.The dog may let you pet his neck, shoulders, and upper back as well. Many dogs do not want strangers petting their legs, belly, or lower back, but there are exceptions.If the dog is not yours, ask the dog's owner if there are any injuries or sensitive spots you should avoid.

First Learn the dog's body language.Stop petting or playing if you see any of the following signs of discomfort.Raised hairs on the scruff or down the back
Stiffened posture and deliberate movements
Mouth closed accompanied with wide pupils or a sideways look
Excessive mouthing to the point of red marks, bruising, or teeth marks
Shying away with tail tucked down
Crouching down6Get to know the dog.Just like people, different dogs enjoy playing in different ways. Few dogs love their toys, and others prefer to play by wrestling or running. If this is a new dog in your household, you can guess what it might enjoy by researching its breed online. Over time, you'll get to know the dog's individual personality and exactly what it enjoysSmaller dogs and dogs with poor upbringings tend to be more skittishand nervous.AdvertisementPart Two of Three:Playing Games1Talk to the dog in an excited voice.Acheerful, high-pitched voice will get the dog in "play mode.These are all signs that the dog is feeling playful:*.Stretching with his rear in the air and front legs on the ground*.Wagging his tail or acting "wiggly"Pricking his ears up or forward2Play fetch.Throwing a ball or stick isa good way to start, although not all dogs like fetch. Wave the object to get the dog's attention, then throw it so she can see where it goes.

Play with rope toys.To play tug of war, show the dog the rope and let him take it in his mouth. Hold onto the other end and pull the rope a little,but not so much it hurts his teeth. Let him pull it back and forth, then let himtake it, while you smile and look happy.
Growling is normal in this context, not hostileSome dogs might interpret tug-of-war
as a game of dominance.2Give the dog chew toys.Most dogs love raw hides, bully sticks, and other natural chew toys. Durable, nontoxic rubber chew toys are a longer-lasting option. Either way, supervise the dog to make sure she doesn't injure her gums from over-chewing or from splintered pieces of bone.

Get the dog puzzle toys.These toys usually have a hidden container thatyou stock with treats. This could be a good choice to entertain your dog while he's home alone.