I am the main handler of our Border Collie, Skye, but my husband likes to play with her too. I was thinking this may be too confusing for her as we have different styles. Should I teach her "The Rules Of Play" before he plays with her, or can he also work with her in the beginning?

Hi Yvette,

My dogs play differently with my husband as he is much stronger than me and a rougher player. I've never had a problem with the dogs understanding the difference just as they will learn how to play differently with different dogs. However, you and your husband should definitely work out certain details first such as no biting your body, no ripping the toy out of the dogs mouth roughly (flossing), no jerking the dog's head up and down, etc.. Also, make sure he knows how to use your marker words.

My husband and I also handle our dogs a little differently than the other, but it seems like as long as the rules are consistent then the dogs understand how to play with each handler. It may take a time or two to realize that you play one way and your husband is a little different but once they do you can have a lot of fun with your dog. Dogs learn to differentiate handlers over an extended period of time which makes the dog more well rounded In the long run. That way no matter who has the leash the dog will handle for someone else just as they handle for you.

Hi Yvette, it comes down to working as a team, you need to sit with your husband and talk through a plan of action and how you are both going to communicate clearly and consistently with the dog.

Rules of play need to be established by both of you, or the dog will act one way with you and another with your husband.