Playing the Tug Game
It’s raining outside, but your puppy or dog is full of energy. What should you do? Learn how to teach your dog to play the tug game!
Dispelling Tug Game Myths
I’m not sure who started the rumor (myth) that tug can teach dogs to be aggressive. Whoever it was, shame on him! Tug game is a fabulous game for dogs and their pet parents to play together.
Everyday, your dog will have a tank of energy and it’s our job to empty that energy fuel tank, but what if it’s raining or you don’t have time for a long walk? Play tug!
As with all games, there are rules that both of you should follow:
Rule 1: Dogs need to learn to let go of the tug toy when asked.
Rule 2: Pet parent must reward dog when he lets go of the tug toy.
Now we understand tug game rules, let’s begin teaching your dog how to play!
- Choose a tug toy: I like soft ones that are pretty long (about 2-3 feet long) so your dog can hold one end while you hold the other end.
- Make it fun: Wiggle or drag the tug toy in front of your dog. When he grabs the toy, begin gently pulling the toy around.
- More fun: Now that your dog understands how to pull and tug on the toy, really pull and wiggle the toy for super fun!
- Teach him to let go: Stop moving the toy and wait for your dog to release the toy. Your dog will try to continue pulling the toy not wanting the game to end! But hold fast, you and the toy should remain still.
- Play again: Once your dog lets go of the toy, start wiggling it again. You’re rewarding “let go” by another play session!
- End game: After rotating back and forth of “let go” to tug, ask your dog to “let go” as you and the toy remain still. Once your dog lets go, give him a treat while you pick up the tug toy and end the game.
I promise, your dog will let go of the toy (even your scrappy terrier). Once the toy stops moving, it’s no longer fun so your dog lets go.
Do you want proof that dogs will let go? Watch this unedited video of Stella Mae, my uber scrappy Miniature Bull Terrier that learned how to let go of a flirt pole. About halfway through, there is a moment when I’m totally shocked she actually let go!
VIDEO: Teach Your Dog the Tug Game
Go play tug with your pup and share your findings in the comment section below!
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