Hey all,
I'm just a regular dog owner like you, and let me tell you, having a German Shepherd around is a whirlwind of energy and fur. My guy, Mack, is a fantastic dog, but keeping him entertained and exercised can be a challenge. That's where tug of war comes in.
We all know tug of war is a fun game for dogs, but did you know it's also a great way to train your furry friend? It's true! Tug of war can help teach your dog valuable commands like "take it," "drop it," and "leave it." Plus, it builds a strong bond between you and your pup.
Here's how I use tug of war to train Mack:
Pick the Right Tug Toy: For a strong chewer like a German Shepherd, a regular rope toy might not last long. I mostly use this striped tug toy from my store but the other colours work just as well. They are super durable and Mack loves the texture.
Get Mack Excited About the Toy: Before we start playing tug, I get Mack all riled up by waving the toy around. This gets him interested and ready to play.
Introduce the Commands: Once Mack grabs the toy, I use the "take it" command to let him know it's okay to hold on. Then, when I want the toy back, I use the "drop it" command. It's important to be consistent with these commands and reward Mack with praise, a treat or more play time when he obeys.
Take Turns Winning: This is the fun part! I don't want Mack to think tug of war is all about him winning (or me winning for that matter). Sometimes I tug really hard, and other times I let Mack "win" by pulling the toy away easily. This keeps the game interesting for both of us.
End on a Positive Note: Always finish the game of tug of war on a good note. This means praising Mack and letting him keep the toy for a moment, or giving him some pats. Our game always ends with me with the toy.
Tug of War for a Happy and Healthy Pup
Playing tug of war with Mack isn't just about teaching him commands. It's also great exercise, both physically and mentally. It helps Mack release some of that pent-up Shepherd energy, and it strengthens our bond.
So, next time you're looking for a way to connect with your dog, pull out a tug toy and get playing! Just remember to use a toy that's durable enough for a strong chewer like a German Shepherd.
I hope this article has been helpful! If you have any questions about tug of war or training your German Shepherd, leave a comment below!
P.S. Looking for a great tug toy for your dog? Check out the striped tug toy in my store!