Dog Tug Toys

Perfect for play and training!

One extremely popular interactive dog toy is the tug toy. Tugging is great exercise for your pup in addition to being a reward for good behavior. He or she is stimulated and engaged and is having fun at the same time!

Dog tug toys are also great training and obedience aids. It's a fun and safe activity for both human and pet. Veterinarians, dog trainers and animal behavorists all agree that the best and most effective way to train your dog is through play, and making sure it's a game your dog enjoys is of course the best way to play train. Keep these rules in mind when playing with dog tug toys:

• Only allow your pup to tug after you have told him or her to "tug"

• Don't let your pup put his or her teeth on your while tugging - if this does happen, say "OW!" and immediately stop playing and walk away. Also drop the toy and walk away if your pup is becoming too aggressive.

• Your pup MUST drop the toy when you ask him or her to. Teaching your dog to "release" or "drop it" is a very important command that is used when playing, as well as in real-life situations if your pup happens to pick up something that might be harmful or dangerous to him or her.

• Dog tug toys shouldn't be easily damaged or destroyed or even have parts that might come apart and pose a choking hazard.

• Make sure you use a real dog tug toy - not any type of household item such as an old shirt or a sock. Not only does this teach your pup that chewing/playing with clothes is OK, but because these items were not meant to be dog toys, they might be destroyed/played with in a way that may not be safe for your pet (create choking hazards with buttons, material may be too rough on their gums/teeth, etc.)

• Never use a dog tug toy in a manner in which your dog isn't firmly planted on the ground. I.E. never lift your dog in the air while he or she holds onto the toy as serious damage can be done to their jaw, teeth and gums.

• Always, ALWAYS supervise your pup as he or she plays with any type of dog tug toy - your pup may be a power chewer and might create choking hazards with a toy that other pups may not.

• Do not leave the toy out at all times. When it is time to play, bring the toy out, and when it is time for play to end put it away.

By keeping these rules and guidelines in mind while playing with dog tug toys, you will ensure your safety and your pet's safety, as well as their maximum enjoyment!