Tug is one of the absolute best games to play with your dog! It helps to build a bond, is physically and mentally tiring, helps to teach impulse control and is a fantastic high-value reward.

But hang on won’t it make my dog more aggressive? Or even dominant?

I’m delighted to tell you those are just myths :) Playing tug with your dog, and teaching them the rules of the game, gives them an outlet for their natural instincts and drive, helps strengthen your relationship and is a fabulous confidence builder. A 2003 study actually showed that dogs that engaged in tug games were more playful and had better recall.

Equipment

For any game to be successful we have to start with the right equipment. A tug toy needs to be inviting (think fleece and sheepskin), needs to be long enough to keep your dog away from your hands, as well flexible and mobile. At Bark-ology we recommend the fabulous toys for Tug-e-Nuff which really can’t be beaten. You can use the code ‘Bark-ology!’ to get a discount.

How to get started:

So how do we set about playing tug?

Step 1)

Think like a squirrel of course! A good game of tug stimulates the dog’s predatory motor sequence, encouraging them to chase and grab the toy and even to parade it once they possess it. So think about how a squirrel might move; fast and unpredictably, in front of your dog to encourage them to take hold. However remember most squirrels don’t have a death wish - so keep your movements away from your dog, tempting them to grab, not scary and odd by shoving the toy in their face.

Step 2)

Once your dog has grabbed the toy, keep your movements gentle and side to side, never up and down, offering resistance to your dog rather than pulling on their mouth. Let them win often; no one wants to play with someone who always wins, and take regular breaks.

I use tug as a really high-value reward for my dog, in fact, Kind would take a game of tug over the stinkiest of treats any day. In order to be effective every game has to come with some rules so here are my rules for a tugtastic fun:

Play fair - if you never let your dog win they aren’t going to enjoy playing with you!
Teeth never touch skin - if they do the game stops.
Teach your dog to drop so you can end games politely.
Keep your tug toys precious. They come with you and aren’t left with the dog to be played with alone.
Have fun!

Hop on to our private Facebook group and show us your dog’s playing tug!