The Best Ways to Use Tug Toys for Training and Playtime
McLovin was a gentleman when it came to play. He’d grab a rope toy and give it a polite little tug, just enough to say, "Hey, let’s play!"
Moxie? Not so much.
Moxie plays to win. She grips the rope with the intensity of a champion weightlifter and refuses to let go. If you’re not ready for battle, she will drag you across the floor.
Tug-of-war is more than just a game—it’s a great way to train, bond, and burn off energy. But there’s a right way to play to keep things fun, safe, and beneficial for your pup.
Here’s how to make the most of tug toys!
1. Tug Builds Self-Control & Obedience
Tug-of-war isn’t just a fun game—it’s also a training tool. Done correctly, it teaches your dog when to play, when to stop, and how to listen.
✅ The “Take It” Command: Teach your dog to wait for permission before grabbing the toy.
✅ The “Drop It” Command: Train them to let go when asked, preventing possessiveness.
✅ The “Gentle” Cue: Helps dogs learn to adjust pressure based on play style.
💡 How to Train With Tug:
1️⃣ Hold the rope toy and ask your dog to sit.
2️⃣ Say "Take it!" and encourage them to grab the toy.
3️⃣ Play for a few seconds, then say "Drop it." If they release, reward with praise.
4️⃣ Repeat until they understand that playtime happens on your terms!
McLovin learned this fast—he was all about manners. Moxie? Well… she’s still working on that whole “drop it” thing.
2. It’s a Safe Way to Let Dogs Use Their Natural Instincts
Dogs love to tug. It taps into their natural prey drive, simulating the “catch and shake” motion of wild hunting instincts.
But don’t worry—playing tug won’t make your dog aggressive! In fact, it actually helps channel energy in a positive way and teaches them to play safely.
🐶 Myth: “Tug makes dogs aggressive.”
✅ Truth: Tug-of-war helps dogs learn boundaries and impulse control—as long as they follow the rules.
McLovin and Moxie both love tugging, but because they’ve learned when to stop, it never gets out of hand.
3. Tug is One of the Best Ways to Exercise Your Dog
A few rounds of tug-of-war can tire out a dog faster than a walk!
✔ Burns energy – A full-body workout, great for active breeds.
✔ Strengthens muscles – Helps with grip strength, neck, and core muscles.
✔ Great for rainy days – An indoor activity when walks aren’t possible.
💡 How Long Should You Play?
🐾 Small dogs & puppies: 2-5 minutes at a time
🐾 Medium to large dogs: 5-10 minutes per session
🐾 High-energy dogs: Several short rounds throughout the day
Moxie would play forever if she could. McLovin? He preferred a quick round before settling down with a treat.
4. Tug Toys Can Be Used for Training & Redirection
Dogs love to chew, pull, and bite—sometimes on things they shouldn’t (looking at you, couch cushions).
Rope tug toys redirect destructive chewing by giving your pup an approved outlet for their energy.
🐶 If your dog chews furniture, try this:
1️⃣ Keep a rope toy near their favorite “chew spot.”
2️⃣ When they start chewing something off-limits, redirect them to the toy.
3️⃣ Praise them when they grab it—so they learn what’s okay to chew!
This trick worked wonders for Moxie, whose puppy teething phase nearly destroyed a pair of Kirk’s sneakers.
5. Tug Strengthens Your Bond With Your Dog
Tug isn’t just physical—it’s social play. When done right, it builds trust, engagement, and excitement between you and your dog.
✔ Engages them mentally & physically
✔ Creates positive interactions with you
✔ Boosts confidence in shy or anxious dogs
McLovin would bring his rope toy to us as an invitation to play—his way of saying, "I love spending time with you!" Moxie, of course, just likes to win.
6. Choosing the Right Tug Toy Matters
Not all tug toys are created equal!
🐾 What to Look For:
✔ 100% natural cotton – Safe for teeth and tummies
✔ Strong & durable weave – Holds up to powerful tuggers
✔ Comfortable grip – Easy for both you and your pup to hold
✔ No synthetic fibers – Avoid plastic-based ropes that can fray and be swallowed
That’s why we handmake our cotton rope tug toys—so they’re safe, strong, and designed for endless fun!
Final Thoughts: Tug the Right Way!
Tug toys aren’t just for fun—they’re a tool for training, exercise, and bonding!
✔ Teaches impulse control with “Take it” & “Drop it” commands
✔ Gives dogs a safe way to use their instincts
✔ Burns energy & strengthens muscles
✔ Helps redirect destructive chewing
✔ Strengthens your bond with your pup
Moxie may play to win, but at the end of the day, tug-of-war is all about teamwork!
Looking for a tough, dog-safe tug toy? Check out our handmade cotton rope tugs—built for training, play, and tons of tail-wagging fun! 🐶✨
