Fetch & Tug: Rules of the Game

Overview

Fetch and tug are fantastic if they have rules: the dog brings the toy back, drops on cue, and stops on cue. Without rules they're just chaos. Structured play is arguably better training than most training sessions.

Why it matters

Play is one of the strongest reinforcers you have. Use it deliberately.

Watch: demonstration

[VIDEO PLACEHOLDER] Structured fetch: throw, retrieve, drop it, sit, throw again. — trainer to attach a video via the admin uploader.

Step by step

1. Fetch: use two identical toys. Throw one, when the dog retrieves it, show the second — most dogs will drop the first to chase the second.

2. Cue "drop it" as they release. Reward with the throw of the second toy.

3. Tug: teach a solid "take it" and "drop it." Every 10–20 seconds of tug, pause for a drop-it.

4. The game ends the moment teeth touch skin — even accidentally.

5. End every play session with the dog wanting more, not exhausted.

[IMAGE PLACEHOLDER] Two-toy fetch setup on a lawn. — trainer to upload one or more still images.

Common mistakes

• Playing tug without a drop cue — leads to guarding.

• Playing fetch until the dog is exhausted — repetitive strain injury risk.

• Letting the dog dictate all the rules — you start the game and you end it.

Practice this week

Two 5-minute structured play sessions per day.