Tug-of-War — Dog Game #6

Back to home Home Top 20 Dog Games Tug-of-War Game # 6 · Behavioral & Enrichment Tug-of-War Teaches impulse control and builds a strong bond. What you need: A long, durable rope or fleece tug toy. How to play Ask your dog to "sit" before starting the game. Offer the toy with an invite word like "take it." Tug gently, side-to-side (never violently up-and-down). Freeze completely and say "drop it," trading the toy for a treat. Coach's notes Let your dog win most reps — 'losing' the toy is what makes them re-engage. Teeth on skin ends the game immediately for 30 seconds, then reset. Never yank vertically; that torques the neck and cervical spine. Rotate tug toys weekly so novelty carries the enthusiasm. If your dog loses interest Quick fixes when engagement drops mid-session. If your dog won't grip, make the tug 'come alive' — drag it low on the ground like prey, don't wave it in their face. Stops tugging mid-game? You may be pulling too hard — match their strength, not yours. Growling during tug is play, not aggression — but a hard mouth on your hand ends the game every time. Why it works Rooney & Bradshaw's tug studies show dogs who win most rounds are more, not less, cooperative afterward — tug builds bond, not dominance. References [ 7 ] Rooney, N. J., & Bradshaw, J. W. S. (2002). An experimental study of the effects of play upon the dog-human relationship. Applied Animal Behaviour Science 75, 161–176.

5 Classic Fetch # 7 Frisbee Toss

Which cognitive muscle is your dog's strongest? Run the same science-based tasks from Duke in your living room and get your dog's full cognitive profile. Discover your dog's profile See all 20 games