Tug-of-war with dogs: Useful or a way to encourage dominance?
Tug-of-war with dogs: Useful or a way to encourage dominance?
What is tug-of-war for dogs?
Tug-of-war is an interactive game in which the dog and owner pull on a toy together. It activates the dog’s hunting motivation chain—particularly the prey-grip and tug phases of the predation sequence—and generates intense excitement, physical exertion, and emotional stimulation. Tug-of-war is one of the most natural and satisfying forms of play for dogs.
Tug-of-war was long considered to "promote dominance" and was rejected by trainers—on the grounds that it taught dogs to "defeat" humans. Scientific studies have clearly refuted this assumption: it is the way the game is played, not the act of playing itself, that determines the outcome.
Background + Scientific Context
Rooney and Bradshaw (2002, *Applied Animal Behaviour Science*) conducted an experiment to investigate how tug-of-war affects the human-dog relationship: Dogs that regularly played tug-of-war with their owners showed neither increased aggression nor changes in obedience toward their owners. Tug-of-war—regardless of whether the dog “won” or “lost”—strengthened the bond and increased the dog’s willingness to cooperate. Letting the dog win had no negative effect on behavior.
Rooney and Bradshaw (2003, Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, PubMed 12964775) specifically investigated the relationship between tug-of-war and dominance: They found no correlation between the outcome of tug-of-war (who wins) and dominance relationships or attachment behavior. Dogs that frequently played tug-of-war showed greater attentiveness and stronger play-initiation behavior toward their owner. The dominance theory underlying the ban on tug-of-war has no empirical basis.
Bauer and Smuts (2007, *Animal Behaviour*) analyzed cooperation and competition in dog dyad play: self-handicapping (the stronger play partner holding back) and role-switching are typical indicators of fairness in dog play—including in tug-of-war between dogs and humans. Tug-of-war is experienced by dogs as a cooperative activity when rules (pauses, changes of direction) are observed by both parties.
Vitomalia-Position
The ban on tug-of-war with dogs is a relic of outdated dominance theory with no scientific basis. Tug-of-war is physically and mentally satisfying, strengthens the bond between dog and owner, and allows the dog to channel and safely release its instinctual energy. When done correctly, it is one of the most valuable activities for active dogs.
When does the stretch play come into play?
- Highly motivated, high-drive dogs that aren't getting enough exercise
- As a reinforcer during training (motivation from toys is stronger than motivation from food)
- As a group activity to strengthen bonds
- Dogs with a strong prey drive (retrievers, Malinois, terriers)
- As a controlled alternative to wild, uncontrolled running around
- Rehabilitation: Tug-of-war as a way to encourage movement after an injury (adapted)
Practical application
Requirements for a good tug-of-war game:
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Toys | A sturdy tug rope or tug toy, long enough (to reach your hand) |
| "Off" or "Drop it" | Reliable release on cue — a prerequisite for safe play |
| Season | 2–5 minutes, then take a break — avoid overexertion |
| Pope's Rule | When the signal is given, pause; let the dog calm down, then continue |
| Tooth contact | Automatic interruption when teeth touch skin or clothing |
Starting and ending the game: 1. Dog sits/waits — Game begins at the handler's signal 2. High-intensity play involving changes of direction and short bursts of movement 3. Pause signal: Hold the toy still; the dog will let go 4. Short break — then start again or finish 5. Conclusion: Toys remain with the owner (not left with the dog permanently)
Recommended equipment: - Tug toy made of durable fleece material (soft for chewing, long enough) - Tug toys with a teething ring and handle (e.g., for protection dog training) - No hard toys to chew on (risk of tooth fracture)
Common Mistakes & Myths
- “If the dog wins, he thinks he’s the boss.” Scientifically disproved: There is no link between the outcome of tug-of-war and dominant behavior. Letting the dog win increases his motivation to play and does not harm the relationship.
- “Tug-of-war makes dogs aggressive.” Tug-of-war played with clear rules (stop signal, no-biting rule) does not increase aggression. Uncontrolled, overly excited tug-of-war played without breaks can exacerbate arousal management issues—this is not due to the type of play, but to the lack of structure.
- “That’s only for athletes.” Tug-of-war is suitable for any dog in good physical health. The intensity and duration are adjusted according to the dog’s age and fitness level.
Current State of Research (2026)
The dominance theory underlying the ban on tug-of-war is not scientifically sound. Current research on play quality focuses on arousal management and toy motivation as training reinforcers. In sports and protection dog sports, tug-of-war is established as the primary toy reinforcer. Clinically relevant: Tug-of-war must be adapted for dogs with joint diseases or dental/jaw problems—take physical limitations into account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tug-of-war dangerous for my dog's teeth?
If you use a suitable, soft tug toy (fleece, soft rubber) and use the correct technique: no. Hard tug toys pose a risk of tooth fracture. Never yank the toy—use smooth, even pulling motions instead.
Can I always let my dog win when we play tug-of-war?
Yes—scientific studies show no negative effects. Allowing the child to win increases their motivation to play. The key is that the toy remains with the caregiver at the end (control over when the game starts and ends).
When can I start playing tug-of-war with my puppy?
Moderate tugging games can begin around 12–16 weeks of age. Adjust the intensity and pulling force to match the puppy’s muscle and tooth development—be especially gentle during the teething phase (3–7 months).
Related terms
Sources & Further Reading
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Rooney, N. J., & Bradshaw, J. W. S. (2002). An experimental study of the effects of play upon the dog-human relationship. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 75(2), 161–176. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0168-1591(01)00192-7
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Rooney, N. J., & Bradshaw, J. W. S. (2003). Links between play and dominance and attachment dimensions of dog-human relationships. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 6(1), 67–94. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12964775/
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Bauer, E. B., & Smuts, B. B. (2007). Cooperation and competition during dyadic play in domestic dogs, Canis familiaris. Animal Behaviour, 73(3), 489–499. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2006.09.006