There's been quite a bit of talk in recent years that Tugging is an activity that shouldn't be used with dogs because of that nasty word 'Dominance'.
Some Trainers believe that playing Tug with your dog will create a Dominant Dog.
This simply isn't the case, if it were then Obedience Handlers at Crufts which is one of the biggest competitions in the world wouldn't be able to get their charges to do anything!
However in saying this, there is definitely a correct way and an incorrect way to play tug.
You can use a tug to motivate, excite & reward your dog for performance sports such as agility, fly ball, lure coursing etc.
You can express a job well done in obedience by having a tug with the dog instead of providing treats.
Tugging can definitely go wrong for some dogs - if your dog exhibits aggressive behaviours whilst tugging, cease tugging and speak with a qualified behaviourist.
Tugging shouldn't be a Tug of War - for dogs who like to climb the leadership ladder they may take this opportunity to try and knock you down a few pegs which is not an ideal situation.
If you would like to tug with your dog at home, make sure you control the game, ask the dog to GIVE and TAKE and LEAVE IT throughout the game.
We have included some links to some great articles on the left that we hope you will enjoy and find beneficial :)
We reccomend watching: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9mPoWuvnLg
