Re: Why Is A Game Of Tug Of War Bad For The Dog?

In Reply to: Why Is A Game Of Tug Of War Bad For The Dog?
Category:   Aggression
Posted by:  Barry
Posted on:  April 27, 2002 at 00:58:27

: I've read a number of times that you mention that playing Tug of War causes your dog to be aggressive. How? I've played fetch with a ball with my JRT and often we get into a Tug of War with the ball. She does growl but not in an agressive manner. It's more playing than anything. My JRT does not like to not give up her toys (balls, frisby's, stuffed toys). If I give her a treat she'll always let go.

Response:

Dear Barry,

Tug-of-war is a CONTEST which means that there is a "winner" and a "loser." The winner should always be the human; controlling when the contest ends is a way to establish dominance over the dog. Substituting a treat for a toy is a "tie."

Please do not misunderstand my choice of words (win/lose/tie) to explain why playing tug-of-war with a JRT is not recommended. Neither you nor your terrier "lose" when you train her to stop when you've had enough of the game. By being clear and consistent with your training, you both "win" because you are building a solid foundation for your relationship.

Leslie