Tug of war is a mentally and physically stimulating game for dogs. It’s a game that involves a bonding interaction between animal and owner. When played right, this game can offer tremendous benefit for your dog, and can be a lot of fun for animal and owner.
There is a myth that tug of war can cause aggressive behavior in dogs. However, the American Kennel Club says that if a game of tug is managed correctly, this is not the case. It’s up to the owner to set boundaries and teach the rules of the game.
When played in a proper manner, tug of war can be beneficial.
4 Benefits of Tug of War
Bond with Your Dog
A game of tug of war can be played anywhere. You can be indoors on a rainy day, or outdoors playing at the dog park. Either way, the bonding experience between human and dog is strong with a game of tug of war. It’s an excellent interactive game, and dogs love spending time with us.
One AKC suggestion is to always let the dog win the game. Dogs are like people in that respect, when they can win, they’ll find the game – and the time spent with their owners – more enjoyable. It’s a way to keep them coming back for more.
Improve Behavior and Mood
Tug of war is a versatile game for pet and owner. According to this study from the University of Bristol, dogs do not see competitive games with their humans as a form of dominance. Instead, they view them as rewarding experiences. In other words, there’s little downside to a proper game of tug, and it can improve behavior and mood.
Tug of war can help to alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression in dogs. It can lessen undesired behaviors such as whining or jumping on people. Dogs need to engage in fun activity, the same way that humans do.
Build Confidence
When the dog wins the game of tug of war, they feel better about themselves. They’re less frustrated with the outcome of the experience. This will help keep them engaged, and increase their confidence.
The dog will find the time together more enjoyable and become more likely to initiate tug of war games in the future. The game becomes a great outlet for channeled mental and physical activity.
Teaches Rules and Boundaries
Tug of war should still only be played within certain parameters. If the dog appears overly aggressive and snaps at the toy, you can stop the game at any moment. The dog should be ready to follow your command to drop the toy.
When a dog can play the game without getting too aggressive, it’s a great way to teach them rules and boundaries. They need to behave in a certain way in order to play the fun games they desire. This is a great lesson for rules and obedience.
Tug of War Offers Great Lessons for Dogs
A responsible game of tug of war can be a great experience for our dogs. Tug play is physically and mentally stimulating and teaches our dogs great lessons. When you set up reasonable parameters to prevent overly aggressive behavior, it offers some invaluable lessons, and they’ll love the game when they continuously walk away with their toy!
Find the right tug toy for your dog!
