Tug-of-War: Fun Game or Bad Habit? The Right Way to Play

Moxie plays to win.

Give her a rope toy, and she locks in with the determination of a champion weightlifter. There’s no halfway effort—just pure, unshakable commitment to the game.

McLovin? He was more of a casual tugger—happy to play but willing to let you win occasionally.

So, is tug-of-war a good game for dogs, or does it encourage bad behavior?

Let’s settle the debate once and for all: Tug-of-war is great for dogs—when done the right way!

1. Myth: “Tug-of-War Makes Dogs Aggressive”

🐾 The Truth: Tug-of-war doesn’t make dogs aggressive—it teaches them self-control!

Some people believe that playing tug encourages dogs to become dominant or aggressive, but research says otherwise. In fact, studies show that dogs who play tug regularly are actually more obedient—because they learn impulse control, patience, and how to play appropriately.

McLovin? Always a gentleman. He loved tug but never got rough.
Moxie? A powerhouse. But she’s learned that if she doesn’t play by the rules, the game ends.

That’s the secret—playing by the rules.

2. Set the Rules: How to Play Tug the Right Way

Tug-of-war is an awesome way to bond, train, and exercise your dog—but only if you set boundaries.

✅ Rule #1: You Start the Game

• Your dog shouldn’t grab the rope without permission.

• Use a command like “Take it!” to signal when play starts.

✅ Rule #2: Teach “Drop It” or “Leave It”

• Your dog must let go of the toy when asked.

• Use positive reinforcement—when they drop the toy, reward them by starting the game again!

✅ Rule #3: If Teeth Touch Skin, Game Over

• Even if it’s an accident, stop playing immediately if your dog’s teeth touch your hand.

• This teaches them to be gentle and aware of their bite pressure.

✅ Rule #4: Let Your Dog Win (Sometimes!)

• Winning builds confidence and makes the game more fun!

• Dogs who get to “win” still respect the game—as long as they follow the rules.

Moxie had to learn the rules—she started out like a tug-of-war maniac, but now she knows: No rules, no play.

3. Tug as a Training Tool

Did you know that tug-of-war can actually help with training?

✔ Improves impulse control – Dogs learn patience and when to stop.
✔ Strengthens “Drop It” command – Makes it fun instead of a struggle.
✔ Burns energy – A great way to work out without needing a long walk.
✔ Boosts confidence – Especially in shy or timid dogs!

McLovin used to get the zoomies after tug, and this game was a perfect way to channel that energy into something structured.

4. The Best Tug Toys (And What to Avoid)

Not all tug toys are safe or durable.

🐶 Best Tug Toys:
✔ 100% natural cotton rope – Safe for teeth and digestion if a strand is swallowed.
✔ Knotted or looped designs – Easy to grip for both dog and owner.
✔ Strong, tightly woven fibers – Lasts longer and prevents easy shredding.

🚫 Avoid:
❌ Plastic-based rope toys – Can break into sharp pieces.
❌ Cheaply made toys – Can unravel too quickly, posing a choking risk.
❌ Toys that are too small – Your dog should be able to grip the toy comfortably.

That’s why we handcraft our cotton rope tug toys—they’re built to last and safe for dogs of all play styles.

5. Tug Is for All Dogs—Not Just the Big Ones!

Some people think only big, strong dogs should play tug. Not true!

🐾 Small dogs love tug, too!
🐾 Senior dogs can play gently for mental stimulation.
🐾 Puppies can learn bite control through supervised tug.

As long as you follow the rules and use the right toy, tug-of-war is a game that all dogs can enjoy.

6. When NOT to Play Tug

Even though tug is a great game, there are a few situations where you might want to skip it.

🚫 If your dog guards toys aggressively – Work on impulse control first.
🚫 If your dog has dental issues – Check with your vet before playing.
🚫 If your dog gets overstimulated easily – Some dogs get too excited, so keep sessions short.

Moxie thinks she could play forever, but we always make sure she takes breaks and stays calm.

Final Thoughts: Tug Is a Fun, Safe, & Beneficial Game!

✔ Encourages self-control and obedience
✔ Strengthens your bond with your dog
✔ Provides physical and mental exercise
✔ Boosts confidence and reduces anxiety
✔ Teaches valuable commands like “Drop It”

McLovin played for fun. Moxie plays to win. But at the end of the day, tug-of-war is one of the best ways to engage with your dog—when done the right way!

Looking for a strong, safe tug toy? Check out our handmade cotton rope tugs—designed for play, training, and tail-wagging fun! 🐶✨