At Big Dog Things, we love toys that stand up to big dog strength — and our Ripstop Tug Toy is one of our absolute favourites. It’s tough, lightweight, and built for interactive fun with large breeds who love a good game of tug.
Mack and I use this toy all the time. Despite his strong grip and enthusiasm, he hasn’t managed to rip it! If you’re wondering how best to play with this tug, here are some tips to get you started.
Why Tug?
Tug games are a brilliant way to:
- Burn off energy - perfect for high-drive dogs.
- Strengthen your bond - your dog learns that you are the most fun part of their day.
- Reinforce training - tug can be used as a reward for great behaviour.
Getting Started:
- Choose the right environment: Play on a non-slip surface where both you and your dog can get good footing. Indoors on a mat or outside on grass works well.
- Teach a start cue: Use a word like “Ready!” or “Tug!” to signal when it’s time to play. This helps your dog know when tug is allowed — and when it’s not.
- Encourage grip and pull: Hold one end of the Ripstop Tug Toy and gently wiggle it to spark interest. Let your dog latch on and give it a good tug!
- Keep it safe:
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- Always pull sideways or gently up/down — avoid strong vertical yanking that could strain your dog’s neck.
- Let your dog win sometimes! It builds confidence and keeps the game fun.
- Teach an “Out” cue: Use a word like “Give” or “Out” to ask your dog to release the toy. Reward them when they do — either with another round of tug or a tasty treat.
Why We Love the Ripstop Tug Toy?
IT’S THE FIRST TUG TOY WE HAVE FOUND THAT HASN’T TORN APART!
- Durable ripstop fabric: Tough enough for German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and other big breeds.
- Lightweight and easy to carry: Great for taking to the park or packing for trips.
- Soft on teeth and gums: Safe for interactive play.
- Versatile: Use for tug games, fetch, or training rewards.
Final Tips:
- Always supervise tug play.
- If the toy becomes damaged, retire it — safety first!
- Incorporate tug into your training — use it to reward a great recall or precision heel work.
At Big Dog Things, we only stock toys we trust with our own big dogs. This Ripstop Tug Toy has become a go-to for us — and we think your dog will love it too.