Because it’s awesome, obviously! 😄 But there’s more to it than just zoomies and tail-chasing. 🐾

Play is how puppies learn to dog. 🐕 It’s their crash course in social smarts and body control. When pups wrestle, tumble, and chase each other, they’re actually figuring out how to interact with other dogs and move those wiggly little bodies with coordination and confidence (Sommerville et al, 2017). Even when they get knocked over mid-zoomie, they’re learning how to handle surprises—which helps them stay cool when life gets a bit unpredictable. 💥😅

Playing isn’t just good for puppy-to-puppy friendships—it helps them bond with us humans, too! 🧑‍🤝‍🧑💛 When you play with your pup, you’re not just tossing a toy—you’re building trust, connection, and a happy relationship. 🎾🐾

Oh, and let’s talk bite control. 🦷 Puppies are born with adorable little shark teeth, but they need to learn how to use them nicely. Through play, they figure it out: bite too hard and the fun stops. That yelp from their littermate? Lesson learned! 😬📚 (Bekoff, 2001; Dietz et al, 2016)

So yes—puppy play is cute, chaotic, and totally essential. Let the games begin! 🎉🐾🐕