05/13/2026
Game on! đž
Tug should be fun *and* functional. Itâs a powerful training tool when done right. Danâs working with Gibson on something we prioritize with all toy-loving dogs: self-control around play.
For safety, play needs some ground rules. Dogs shouldnât be jumping up or grabbing at the toy, and they need to wait for permission to engage. Just as important, they need to learn to let go when asked. Without that structure, play can quickly turn chaotic or even unsafe, especially if a dog starts grabbing things like gloves, sleeves, or scarves instead of appropriate toys.
But once those skills are in place, thatâs when the magic happens! ⨠Toys become an incredibly effective reward for behaviors like loose leash walking, coming when called, and more. For some dogs, theyâre even more motivating than food!
Here, Dan engages Gibson in a fun game of tug, encouraging him to shift his weight backwards and keeping his head in line with his spine (not cranked up towards the sky). When Dan cues Gibson to let go of the toy, he does so.
Gibson offers to sit, and Dan tests his stay skills by dragging the toy on the ground. (The toy moving is NOT permission to grab it!) When Dan gives Gibson his release cue, the game resumes!
We build these toy skills into our Complete Puppy Raising and Intensive Training Programs, and weâre always happy to coach you through them in private lessons too.
(P.S. No, playing tug does not make your dog âdominantâ or contribute to aggression. Yes, itâs okay to let them win. And itâs also okay if they growl while theyâre tugging!)
