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Four dark brown Golden Retriever puppies wrestling and playing together on a green lawn by a wooden fence 9 / 30

The Puppy Pile on the Lawn Got Bigger and Bigger

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Play has turned into a happy pileup on the grass. Four chocolate-brown puppies tumble together at the edge of a wooden fence: one gazes at the camera with an open grin, one is flopped on his side with his paws in the air, another climbs over the top, and a fourth watches from behind with his tongue out. Their coats are speckled with bits of grass, and the sun gives the whole scene a golden afternoon glow.

Rough-and-tumble play is how littermates learn about each other. They bite, pounce, and wrestle, and they also learn how hard is too hard, because a squeal from a sibling often ends the round. That is called bite inhibition, and it is a valuable lesson. People can help by stepping in if play gets too rough, offering breaks, and giving the puppies plenty of chances to meet other friendly, vaccinated dogs once their vet says it is safe.

A securely fenced yard makes a good play area for pups, as long as someone is nearby to supervise. Check the grass and garden for plants or products that are unsafe for dogs, and provide a shady spot and fresh water on warm days.

Grass stains and muddy paws are all part of the fun. These four look as if they plan to stay in this happy tangle until the sun goes down.

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