Tug of War

Most dogs love to play tug of war. This game can be played as long as it is played with adults only and certain rules are followed. Tug of war played without rules can become dangerous. Dogs are predatory animals and tug of war allows them to use their natural instincts.

RULES

1. The dog should be taught to release the object with a command such as "OUT" "DROP IT" or "GIVE". Practice this exercise with your dog by offering the toy to your dog. Then give him the command you choose to release it. Don't tug the toy from him. Be still and wait for him to release. When he does, give a treat and lots of praise. Then give him a command to retake the toy, such as "TAKE IT". If he doesn't take it, simply put the toy down in front of him, then take it back and give a reward. Offer the toy again. Practice these exchanges several times, before you start implementing the game itself.
If your dog will not release the toy, let him see the treat in your hand and sniff it. The idea, you give me the toy, I'll give you this treat.
Once you have started playing tug of war, keep in mind that any refusal on your dog's part to release the toy on your command will end the game. When he does drop it, put the toy up out of reach.

2. Be sure that YOU are always the one to START the game and END the game. Teach him a command such as "GET YOUR ROPE", then present the toy. Only have one toy that is used for tug of war. Do not allow your dog to retake the toy unless you have invited him to do so. If he does, this ends the game.

3. When playing tug of war, sometimes dogs will make contact with your skin. If this happens, screech "OUCH" and end the game.