The answer is YES! Tug is an awesome training game to play with your dog. When played correctly, it can be mentally and physically stimulating while creating a stronger bond between you and your dog. And no, contrary to old school training beliefs it will not make your dog aggressive.
In the beginning stages of tug, letting your dog win is super important, this will help to build confidence. It will also help them to love playing the game. Think about it, would you like to play a game that you never got to win? The toy that you use for tug should only come out when it is time to play because if it’s a toy they have access to all the time, what do they need you for? As the owner, you should always be the one to initiate and end the game. Ending the game before your dog is done with it does not make you mean, it leaves them wanting more! Save that excitement for your next tug session!
This is a great way to tire your dog out both physically and mentally. Throw in some basic obedience commands throughout your play session. Make your dog sit or down before you release them with a “get it” command to the tug toy. This is also a great way to teach your dog the command drop it. Since you are the one in control of the game, the dog becomes that much more engaged with you. They learn that you are the gatekeeper for all things fun and they must do something in order to get something. This is an awesome relationship to have with your dog and one that I strive to give all my clients.
Tug is an awesome training tool. None of us want obese dogs which is why I am a huge fan of phasing out the food. Puppies need constant reinforcement for positive behaviors, that means LOTS of cookies. As dogs get older and become more advanced in their training, tug can replace that food reward. If you build up the value for a game of tug, many dogs see this as something better than food and will happily take a game of tug over a cookie. In order to have tug become a successful training tool and reward, be sure to follow these basic tug of war rules!
My favorite tug toys have two handles for you to hold and a center piece for your dog to tug on! Genuine dog gear has some awesome tug toys. I have attached the link below.
