Is group play good for dogs?

Dogs are social animals and thrive in the company of others. At dog daycare facilities, group play provides a wide range of benefits for our furry friends. Socialization: Dogs are pack animals, and being around other dogs helps them learn how to interact with their peers. Group play allows dogs to develop and improve their social skills, making them better adjusted and more confident around other dogs. Exercise: Group play allows dogs to engage in physical activities such as running, chasing, and playing. This helps keep them active, healthy, and fit. Mental Stimulation: Group play can provide dogs with mental stimulation, as they engage in activities that challenge them both physically and mentally. Reduced Anxiety: For some dogs, being in a group setting can help reduce anxiety and stress.

My trainer told me that playgroups are a waste of time and just reinforces poor behavior in a puppy. He thinks that leash based socialization around other dogs is the best so you can be in constant control of how they play. We brought him a couple of times to a playgroup and the first time, he was kinda relaxed and was more focused on exploring the area more than playing with other dogs. He got riled up with another dog towards the end but it seemed great. The second time, that other dog was there and they basically went at it for the whole duration. He was growling and barking and they were constantly rolling around and going crazy on each other. It didn't seem super healthy to me and the mediator of the group wasn't really telling anyone to pick them up and calm them down.