Is tug-of-war a fun way to connect with your dog and help her burn some energy, or is it a threat to her physical health and even her behavior? Tug-of-war can be used as an integral part of your dog’s routine, but there are steps you need to take to ensure positive results (and prevent bad ones). Read on for the top ways to make tug-of-war safe for dogs.
Start With Commands
Believe it or not, tug-of-war can be a great method for teaching your dog better impulse control. This is especially useful if your dog tends to be impatient or demanding when it comes to things like toys, attention, or food. The key is to teach the commands wait and drop it and to use them every time you get out the tug toy.
Choose the Right Toy
Not all toys are suitable for tugging. Make sure you’re choosing materials that won’t damage your dog’s teeth when tugged. Avoid materials like hard plastic and opt for sturdy but pliable materials like braided rope. Keep in mind that your dog may grab for the toy if she loses her grip during the game, so you’ll want enough length that she won’t accidentally bite your hand.
Keep Tug Rounds Short
It’s your job to decide when tug-of-war is over, and we recommend keeping each round short. Get out the tug toy and ask your dog to wait. When you release her from waiting, tug the toy back and forth no more than five times before letting her win. Play the game again and ask her to drop it. Then, put the tug toy away and give her a grounding activity like a scent-based puzzle. That way, she focuses her energy and doesn’t go seeking other toys or household items to use in another round of tugging.
Prioritize Neck and Spine Health
One of the biggest reasons why some owners worry that tug-of-war isn’t safe for dogs is the potential damage it can cause to a dog’s neck and spine. You’re most likely to see neck and spinal injuries if you’re yanking the toy up and down or from side to side. Instead, make sure that you’re tugging the toy straight back from your dog and holding your end of the toy at the same height as your dog’s spine. That way, you’re not pulling your dog’s spine out of natural alignment.
Avoid Possessive Behaviors
When your dog wins a round of tug-of-war, they may run off with the toy or position themselves so it’s out of your reach. Even if they’re initiating a game of keep-away, don’t resume playing until they willingly bring the toy back to you. Chasing them or grabbing the toy when they’re trying to guard it can result in possessive behavior. It can also teach them that winning is the reward, when the real reward should be your engagement.
At All Dogs Unleashed, our trainers are here to help owners find safe and effective ways to connect with their dogs. Learn more about our training programs today!
