Exercise and play
Is tug of war bad for dogs?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Tug is safe and even useful for building impulse control when played with clear rules, using a soft rope or fabric toy rather than a rigid one, and teaching a reliable drop cue. It becomes a problem mainly when there are no rules, when it is played with a puppy still teething, or when a dog cannot let go on cue.
Where the bad reputation comes from
Older advice suggested tug caused aggression or dominance issues, which research and modern trainers generally do not support. The actual risk is mostly physical, jarring a puppy's teeth or neck, and behavioral, reinforcing a dog that will not release items.
Playing it safely
Keeping tugging mostly horizontal rather than yanking upward, using a soft toy, and stopping the moment teeth touch skin all reduce physical risk, while requiring a sit or drop before restarting the game keeps it structured rather than chaotic.
When to skip it
Puppies under about 6 months with baby teeth still present, and dogs that guard toys or struggle to release on cue, are better served practicing a reliable drop with lower arousal games before tug is added back in.
Key takeaways
- Tug played with clear rules and a soft toy is a safe, useful game for most dogs.
- Keeping the motion horizontal and stopping if teeth touch skin reduces physical risk.
- Teething puppies and dogs that will not release on cue are better off waiting or building that skill first.