Exercise and play
How do you play tug safely with a puppy?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Wait until a puppy has its adult teeth, usually around 6 to 7 months, before playing proper tug, and until then keep the game very gentle with minimal pulling force to avoid stressing baby teeth or a developing jaw. Always keep motion horizontal and stop the moment teeth touch skin.
Why timing matters for a puppy's mouth
Baby teeth are more fragile and a puppy's jaw is still developing, so vigorous tugging before the adult teeth come in fully, usually complete by 7 months, carries more risk of dental or jaw strain than the same game with an adult dog.
A gentler version for young puppies
Very light, low intensity tugging with minimal resistance, letting the puppy win most of the time, teaches the game's basic idea without the force levels that come with full adult tug play.
Building good habits early
Teaching a reliable drop cue from the very first tug sessions, even gentle ones, sets a puppy up for safe, structured tug play as an adult rather than needing to correct a habit of not releasing later on.
Key takeaways
- Full intensity tug is best saved until a puppy's adult teeth are in, around 6 to 7 months.
- A gentle, low force version can introduce the game safely to younger puppies.
- Teaching a drop cue from the first sessions builds good habits before the game gets more intense.