Tug of War With Your Dog: Why It’s a Brilliant Game (and Won’t Cause Aggression)

Tug of war is one of the most misunderstood games in dog training.

Many owners worry that tug:

• Encourages aggression

• Teaches dogs to dominate

• Causes growling or “bad behaviour”

In reality, when played properly, tug is fantastic for confidence, connection, training, and emotional regulation.

Let’s look at why tug is such a valuable game—and how to play it in a way that truly benefits your dog.

Tug Is a Natural Behaviour

Dogs are hard-wired to grab, pull, and shake. Tug taps into instincts that are:

• Normal

• Healthy

• Enjoyable

For many dogs, tug is far more satisfying than throwing a ball repeatedly.

Tug Does Not Cause Aggression

This is one of the biggest myths in dog training.

Playing tug does not:

• Make dogs aggressive

• Teach dominance

• Encourage biting people

Aggression comes from fear, frustration, or poor learning—not from structured play.

In fact, tug can help dogs learn impulse control when rules are clear.

Growling During Tug Is Normal

Many dogs growl while playing tug.

This is:

• Play vocalisation

• Part of excitement

• Completely normal

A play growl sounds loose and bouncy, with relaxed body language.

🚩 Concerned growling looks stiff, intense, and paired with freezing or snapping — that’s not play and needs support.

Let Your Dog Win (Yes, Really)

Winning matters to dogs.

Letting your dog win:

• Builds confidence

• Increases engagement

• Reduces frustration

• Keeps the game fun

A dog who never wins often becomes discouraged or over-aroused.

When your dog puts in effort, praise them and let them have the toy. That effort matters.

You wouldnt want to play a game that you never win, right? Our dogs feel the same way.

Half the Game Is Getting the Toy

One of the biggest mistakes owners make is shoving the toy into the dog’s face and expecting the game to start automatically.

Instead:

• Drag the toy along the ground

• Move it away playfully

• Let your dog chase and grab it

• Make it a challenge for your dog to get the toy.

The build-up is part of the fun and helps safely fulfil natural predatory sequences.

Tug Builds Real Training Skills

Played well, tug teaches:

• Focus

• Impulse control

• Taking breaks

• Re-engaging calmly

You can practise:

• “Take it”

• “Drop”

• Pausing the game when arousal rises

Tug becomes a communication tool, not chaos.

Tug Is Brilliant for Confidence

Tug is especially helpful for:

• Nervous dogs

• Adolescents

• Dogs lacking confidence

• Dogs who don’t enjoy food rewards

Winning a tug game and being praised for effort can be incredibly empowering.

Simple Rules for Healthy Tug Play

✔ Use a toy, not hands

✔ Start and end the game calmly

✔ Rub your dog when they win the toy to show them that you aren't always going to take it off of them.

✔ Praise effort

✔ Let your dog win often

✔ Stop if arousal tips too high

Structure keeps tug safe and enjoyable.

When Tug Might Not Be Appropriate

Tug should be avoided or carefully managed if:

• A dog guards toys

• A dog freezes or stiffens

• There’s a history of aggression

In these cases, professional guidance is important.

Final Thought

Tug of war isn’t about dominance—it’s about connection, confidence, and communication.

When played properly, tug strengthens your bond with your dog and provides a brilliant outlet for natural behaviour.

If you’re unsure how to use tug safely or want to incorporate it into training, Planet Pup is always happy to help 💚🐾The right play can make a world of difference.