Dog showing teeth while playing?

Question

Is it normal for my dog to show his teeth like he's growling (though not actually making a growling sound) while playing with other dogs

Answer 1

Yup, very normal. As long as everyone is having a good time, there's nothing wrong with that. All of my 5 dogs show teeth when playing, it's all just part of the game. Even growling is fine as long as it doesn't get serious.

Answer 2

im no vet but if hes not growling or being physical with the other dogs then id say he fine but if he attacks another dog youre screwed

Answer 3

yeh

its normal for males to do it

females don't do it as often

mine does it =]]

Answer 4

Very normal.  My dogs growl and show their teeth all the time in play.  It actually looks like play though - real dogs attacking have much more angry look.  You can tell a play show of teeth and growling from serious growling.  The growling in a vicious dog is much more of a low rumble.  Play growls are higher pitched.  When dogs are playing, their eyes are wide open and the teeth are displayed in sort of a "grin" as opposed to hard angry looking face.

EDIT - I have both male and female dogs - they both do it.

Answer 5

Yes, many males do it.  It's not to show attack, it's just to be on the defensive side.  This is normal for dogs.  Mainly males do it, females can but not so often.   They don't usually have a purpose to.  

:)

Answer 6

Yeah it's normal, my female dogs do it all of the time.