The Ultimate Game of Tug: A Fun and Engaging Activity for You and Your Dog
Tug is more than just a game—it’s a fantastic way to bond with your dog, build their obedience skills, and satisfy their natural instincts. It’s also Rebecca Price’s favorite game to play with her dogs and one of the first activities she teaches dog owners. At Dalmatia BnB, Rebecca is passionate about turning simple, fun activities like tug into opportunities to strengthen the bond between dogs and their humans.
Here’s how to play “The Game” of tug, step by step, while keeping it fun and structured.
What You’ll Need:
• A tug toy (can be a rope toy, ball on a rope, or a specific tug toy).
• A playful attitude to get your dog excited!
The Rules of Tug:
1. Have a Tug Toy Ready
Choose a toy that your dog can grip easily and is safe for tugging.
2. Build Drive for the Toy
If your dog isn’t immediately interested, tease them by wiggling or hiding the toy to make it irresistible. Act like it’s the best thing ever!
3. Hide the Toy
Tuck the toy in your back pocket or under your shirt while you give a command.
4. Use Commands to Start the Game
Ask for a behavior like “sit.” Once your dog performs the command, immediately pull out the toy and say “OK” to invite them to tug.
5. Let Them Win Sometimes
Allow your dog to win the toy occasionally. When they take their “victory lap,” celebrate with them—it’s all part of the fun!
6. You Win Sometimes Too
Occasionally pull the toy from their mouth, hide it, and say “mine” to teach impulse control and boundaries.
7. Practice “Drop It”
Have your dog release the toy on cue. Once they drop it, make them wait until you say “OK” to grab it again, even if it’s on the ground.
8. Incorporate Realistic Play
Use a “heartbeat tug” (short, quick pulls) to mimic the movement of prey. This taps into their natural instincts.
9. No Behavior, No Play
If your dog doesn’t perform the commanded behavior, the toy stays hidden. Keep teasing with the toy, give the command again, and only reward with the game when they comply.
Why Tug is Great for Dogs
• Builds Impulse Control: Reinforces commands like “sit,” “drop it,” and “wait.”
• Strengthens Your Bond: Tug is an interactive game that fosters trust and teamwork.
• Burns Energy: Great for mental and physical stimulation, especially for high-energy dogs.
Tug is more than just fun—it’s a way to engage your dog’s mind, body, and instincts in a positive, structured way.
Another Trainer’s Perspective
During a consultation with Rebecca, Terra with Paws N’ Playand Wholistic Canine shared how much she loves using tug as a training tool. Terra explained, “Tug is one of my favorite ways to help dogs practice self-regulation through play. It’s especially effective for shepherds and other high-energy dogs who are naturally drawn to this type of interaction. Playful yet purposeful games like tug not only build impulse control but also give dogs the freedom to express their instincts in a safe, structured environment.”
Tug isn’t just about fun; it’s about connection and creating opportunities for growth. At Dalmatia BnB, Rebecca can help you bring out the best in your dog by making games like tug part of your training routine.
So grab a tug toy, follow the rules, and get ready to play “The Game” with your pup! Tug of war with dogs is more than a game—it’s the key to engaging their instincts, building their skills, and having a great time together.
.png){kind=logo}
Comments