Tug & Fetch

Learn how to play tug and fetch and why it’s so helpful in building your relationship.

Overview

  • Tug is a powerful tool for training and engagement. It serves as a high-value reward for obedience, reduces reliance on treats, and strengthens the bond between dog and owner.

  • Tug is more than just a game—it’s an interactive experience that builds focus, confidence, and motivation. By making the reward an event, you create a fun and engaging interaction that keeps your dog excited and engaged.

  • Tug also boosts your dog’s confidence by letting them win and feel strong. Once they’ve mastered tug, you can easily introduce commands like “Drop It” and fetch.

Videos

Basics of Tug Play for Puppy Introduction

How to Play Tug

You’ll want to choose certain interactive toys that are meant for playing tug. See the Basic Gear Guide for advice. These toys only come out to play with you and dog and then they go back away when you are done.

Set the Rules

  • Start every session with “Are you ready?” and end with “All done.”

  • Dog cannot reach for the toy until told “Get It.”

  • Dog must not bite your hand; use a properly sized tug.

  • Dog must drop the toy when told.

Get Them Interested

  • Lay the toy on the ground, mark and reward when they show interest.

  • Move the toy around and reward for mouth interaction.

  • Keep it fun—don’t rush or force the process.

Start to Tug

  • Say “Are you ready?” and show the toy.

  • Say “Get It” and give a tiny tug. Praise when they hold on.

  • Gradually increase the tugging intensity and duration.

  • Tug smoothly and gently—never yank the toy from them.

  • Let them win to build confidence.

  • Move backward to build their self-esteem.

Build Engagement

  • Praise when they let go and encourage them to return the toy.

  • Play in a hallway to limit escape routes.

  • Once they don’t run off with the toy, start teaching “Drop It.”

Goal

  • The toy should be fun because you’re playing together, not just because of the toy.

How to Teach Fetch

Set Fetch Rules

  • Decide what you want fetch to look like (e.g., drop at feet, hold until told to drop, or play tug).

  • Be consistent and clear with your rules to avoid confusion.

Start Fetch

  • Ensure your dog can play tug and drop items on command before introducing fetch.

  • Begin by saying “Are you ready?” and playing tug, then say “Drop It.”

  • Toss the toy near you, and when they grab it, praise them and encourage them to return.

  • Decide how you want fetch to end (drop at feet, drop when you grab, or play tug).

Build Up Distance

  • Gradually increase how far you throw the toy while keeping it fun.

  • Use a leash if needed to prevent running off, but don’t yank them back.

  • Remember not to chase them.

Tips

  • Make fetch a structured game with consistent rules and reinforcement.

  • Start indoors with low distractions, then gradually add distractions and change environments while going back to simpler steps if needed.

  • Reinforce the same rules everywhere for consistency.