By The LeatherWerks Daddy
So… you wanna be a good boy?
Whether you’re already wagging your tail or just sniffing around, pup play is one of the most joyful, freeing, and surprisingly intimate kinks out there. It’s primal. It’s playful. And when done right, it’s a beautiful headspace that connects mind, body, and pack.
Now, Daddy’s seen a lot of pups come and go—but the ones who thrive are the ones who learn the basics first. So let’s dig in, nose first.
What Is Pup Play?
At its core, pup play is a form of animal roleplay where a person takes on the persona or headspace of a dog—most often a playful, eager, obedient pup. It’s not about pretending to be an actual dog. It’s about exploring submission, freedom, instinct, affection, and yes… sometimes pure, shameless silliness.
Some pups are rowdy and wild. Others are shy, cuddly lapdogs. Some are service-oriented and thrive on rules and training. Others just wanna roll on the floor and chew a squeaky toy.
There’s no one way to be a pup—but there are ways to do it responsibly.
Roles in Pup Play
- Pup: The person entering pup space. May act playful, obedient, mischievous, or loyal—depending on personality.
- Handler: The Dom, trainer, or caregiver. Guides the pup, sets boundaries, rewards, corrects, and cares.
- Alpha Pup: A dominant pup who may lead a pack or help train other pups under a Handler’s authority.
- Pack: A group of pups and Handlers bonded by dynamic, friendship, or shared play.
Whether you’re a lone stray or a pampered house pup, there’s a place for you in the scene.
Getting into Pup Space
Pup space is the mental/emotional state where a pup lets go of human concerns and gives in to instinct. Think less talking, more barking. Less thinking, more feeling. It’s not about humiliation—it’s about surrender and expression.
Some ways to enter pup space:
- Sensory deprivation (hoods, blindfolds)
- Collars, leashes, and restraints
- Verbal commands
- Crawling or roughhousing
- Affirmation and praise from a Handler
Remember: it’s about presence, not perfection. You don’t need to “act” like a dog—you need to feel like one.
Gear Up, Pup
You don’t need gear to be a pup. But let’s be real—it’s fun, affirming, and hot.
Popular gear includes:
- Hood: Iconic pup identity. Full-face, half-face, leather, neoprene—find what fits you.
- Tail: Plugs or belt-on waggers—choose based on your comfort and scene type.
- Collar: Symbol of ownership or dynamic. Can also be used for training or restraint.
- Mitts & Knee Pads: Protect your paws and joints during rough play or crawling.
- Harness: Shows off your body and gives a Handler something to grab.
Don’t let anyone tell you what gear “makes” a pup. If a tennis ball in your mouth is all you’ve got? That’s enough. Play your way.
Training, Play, and Protocol
Some pups love being trained. Others just want to romp. Some dynamics involve daily structure, tasks, or commands; others are just about occasional scene play.
Examples of pup play activities:
- Fetch and chase games
- Obedience training
- Treat rewards (or denial)
- Wrestling and mounting
- Service tasks (boot-licking, heel-following)
- Public play at mosh events or kink parties
Whether it’s a cuddle puddle or a hardcore obedience session, consent and clarity are key. Always negotiate roles, limits, and expectations beforehand.
Aftercare for Pups
Coming down from pup space can be intense. Pups may feel tired, emotional, or even disoriented. This is totally normal.
Handlers: Aftercare is part of the scene. Hydrate your pup. Praise them. Cuddle them. Let them know they’re safe and cared for.
Pups: Communicate what you need. Rest. Don’t rush out of the headspace. And thank your Handler—you’re a good boy, after all.
Final Tail-Wag from Daddy
Pup play might look playful—and it is—but don’t mistake it for something shallow. It’s primal, cathartic, and deeply powerful. When a pup trusts their Handler enough to drop their guard, roll over, and submit completely?
That’s not just roleplay. That’s devotion.
So whether you’re barking in a backroom or snoozing on your Handler’s lap—do it proudly, safely, and with your tail high.
Good boy.
Glossary
- Pup: A person engaging in dog roleplay; can be playful, submissive, or dominant.
- Handler: The Dominant or caregiver figure who trains, guides, and cares for the pup.
- Alpha Pup: A more dominant pup who often leads or helps manage a pack.
- Pack: A group of pups (and Handlers) with a shared dynamic or community.
- Pup Space: The mental headspace a pup enters during play—instinctive, carefree, and submissive.
- Mosh: A pup play event or scene where multiple pups interact, usually with mats and lots of activity.
- Tail: A wearable accessory to signify pup identity—can be plug-based or worn externally.
- Obedience Play: Roleplay involving commands, training, rewards, and punishment.
- Gear: Pup-specific clothing or accessories used to enhance identity or play (hoods, collars, mitts, etc.).
- Aftercare: The post-scene care to help a pup (or Handler) return to emotional baseline.
