How can we calm the dogs down to stop playing so roughly?

I have 2 regular doggie guests that are very high energy (a Boxer pup and Fox Terrier pup), both of them about 1.5 years old. They will run and tumble all, day, long with whoever is up to it. I will usually separate and crate them twice a day to make them take a naptime. Will also kennel one or both as needed when they get to be too crazy.

Another tactic that I find works, especially for food motivated dogs, is having a treat session. I call all the dogs over to me and start handing out little treat bites for the dogs that will sit. It refocuses their attention for a few minutes to something other than their best buddy.

After treats, I will introduce a tug toy or go play fetch with them. A day full of play usually means a good night's sleep for everyone!

Since the main concern is the bulldog needing to catch her breath, I would simply let them play it out and give them small "time out" sessions every so often.

When I have this problem with my own dogs, I get them to sit and lie down and keep them there for a moment so they have a chance to calm down. Usually doing this a few times will lead to them acting more calm all around. Also, if it's over a toy, remove the toy. Hope this helps!

You could also try a lot of focused exercise. Puppies can't take long walks, but a game of catch or something similar will tire them out. Also, force the naps. They need to sleep, just like toddlers. LOL.

Some tactics I've used when supervising dog play

1. squirt bottle - I'll squirt above their heads, so it's not a punishment but a mysterious spray. It's temporary but can quickly defuse an escalating situation as most dogs stop what they're doing and investigate the source of the water

2. puzzles/toys - I have multiple Kongs that I'll use to give dogs something quiet to do. They'll each get their own filled with owner approved treats, though sometimes will need to be crated if anyone is food aggressive/tries to steal the other Kong

3. physical separation - crates and baby gates are my lifesaver. Sometimes dogs, especially puppies, are exhausted and nearing a 'meltdown' but like toddlers, don't realize they're tired, so by physically separating them they will usually fall asleep and everyone can have a breather!

4. long walks - this only works if they can be distracted by the walk and don't try to play with each other while walking on leash! I've sat dogs that just tried to play the entire time, which made walking down a sidewalk near impossible