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My dog and puppy play rough, causing cuts. Is it normal? How to stop?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 5 months old | 30 lbs

My dog and puppy play nicely (they love to play!) but I think it may be too rough because they both receive tiny cuts/scratches or cause tiny bald spots to each other. Some marks that scar! It’s not aggressive in the slightest but they are definitely both really really really playful dogs in general. Is this something to correct, and if so how? Or is it normal and will die down over time as they get older? I’m just worried about them getting seriously hurt by accident one day.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on August 31st, 2018

If they are playing to the point of causing cuts and scratches, and you feel it is too rough, I'd definitely instill some "time out" time where both dogs can relax, rest, and maybe focus on a chew toy or quiet activity. Once they are calm, you can let them resume play. Normal play can be a little rough, and if the dogs are enjoying it, it's fine. You may also want to trim back their nails or file down the nails to make them softer to help avoid scratches while playing.

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