1. **Body Language Changes**: A dog that is stressed might exhibit a tense body posture. Look for stiff legs, a lowered head, or a tucked tail. These are signs that the dog may not be enjoying the play.
2. **Excessive Barking or Growling**: While barking can be part of play, if it becomes excessive or is accompanied by growling that sounds different from playful growls, it may indicate the dog is feeling overwhelmed.
3. **Withdrawal or Hiding**: If your dog suddenly moves away from the play area or seeks a quiet spot away from other dogs or people, it’s a clear sign that they are feeling stressed.
4. **Lip Licking or Yawning**: Dogs often lick their lips or yawn when they are anxious or stressed. These behaviors can be subtle, so watch for them during playtime.
5. **Panting**: While dogs do pant after exercise, panting during play when they are not physically exerting themselves can be a sign of stress.
6. **Avoidance of Eye Contact**: A dog that avoids eye contact or turns its head away may be feeling uncomfortable in the situation.
7. **Aggressive Behavior**: If your dog starts to show signs of aggression, such as snapping or biting, it is a clear indication that they are not enjoying the play and feel threatened.
To help reduce stress during play, ensure that your dog is playing with compatible playmates, take breaks as needed, and create a safe environment where your dog feels secure. Pay attention to their cues and be ready to intervene if you notice signs of stress to help them feel more comfortable and enjoy their playtime.
This answer doesn't make sense or isn't related to the question. Mark it as a probable hallucination of the AI model.