Tug o’ War is most often said to be negative for companion and owner. I differ on that opinion and admonish this article isn’t for everyone. I often hear a wife’s/woman’s complaint or question about their male counter parts behavior with the dog. Guys will be guys I’m afraid! So what I suggest in the matter of tug o’ war is that it be very defined and it can work for you rather than against. Some dogs love the physical just like some men. So maybe we can train both with this article. When I play this way with my dogs I introduce the tug as my toy and I’m initiating the play not vice versa, this is very important. I am always the one dictating the play and in doing so I am giving direction and remaining the leader. When I decide to end the game I keep the toy/tug and put it away. During this play the dog is not allowed to put their mouth on you. The dog should be taught to release upon command. This is done without tugging and started through the natural inclination to release and associating a release command. The tug can also be tossed into different areas and teaching the retrieve and release.

For those who are training for dog sport or protection dogs you may want to approach this in a completely different way and highly recommend a Leerburg Training tape (link: http://leerburg.com/)

Written by: Steve Estrada; "Gone to the Dogs" 2004