Module 6.12 Tug Play

Tug play is a fun and rewarding way to build engagement with your puppy while teaching important skills like self-control and releasing objects. Start by letting your puppy chase the toy along the ground, moving it in gentle figure-of-eights or circles to spark their interest. After a short chase game then let your puppy get it, keep the toy at head height and below (to reduce jumping behaviours and strain on their neck/spine) and allow a gentle game of tug, avoid pulling too hard, and instead let your puppy do most of the tugging. Every so often, you can let go of the toy and see if your puppy chooses to bring it back to continue the game. 

This is a great opportunity to teach a “drop” by swapping the toy for a treat, helping them learn to release on cue. After a short play session, pause and wait for your puppy to settle and calm down before starting the game again, reinforcing both excitement and relaxation.