I love this!!! Never would have thought their was a strategy for playing tug, and learning how important it is to let my insecure dog win! Thank you so much!
This video is really good dude!!! I use tug as a fundamental part of my training, and having recently adopted a 5.5 month old Mali x Dutch Shepherd who hadn't seen anything of the world, nor has had toys, little bite tugs etc it was a case of starting late, we have made lots of progress, BUT her mouthing/re-biting/getting a solid grip on the back teeth has been a real pain in the 🍑 if I'm honest (and my hand has the scars to prove it). I'm so glad I came across your video as you are doing something a little differently to me for the re-bite so I'm going to give that a go! This is one of the best videos out there if I'm honest on the fundamentals on playing tug, and I appreciate your efforts 🙌
Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience! It sounds like you’re doing great work with your Mali x Dutch Shepherd, especially considering the late start. Tug is such a fantastic training tool, and I’m glad you’re finding the video helpful for addressing the re-bite and grip challenges. Mouthing and re-biting can definitely be frustrating (and painful-those scars are no joke!), but with consistent technique and patience, progress will come. I’m excited to hear how implementing some of the tips from the video works out for you. Thank you again for the support and for taking the time to comment-it really means a lot. Keep up the great work, and happy training! 🙌
Impressive channel with an impressive dog educator and trainer! I learn so much from you despite the fair amount of experience I already have. You should have an academy if you don't already. Thank you so much!
Hi! I'm from Colombia and i had not found a channel in Spanish with information as valuable like this. Thank you very much, it has been very helpful! Greetings.
I really like your explanation of the finer details. I put this video in the same caliber as a couple of the leerberg playing tug videos. I will definitely add it to my playlist.
So glad I found your channel, very informative. My GSD pup from working lines arrives in 6 weeks as an 8 wk old,, I’m a bit of a sponge re: IGP training. Appreciate your efforts from Australia.
Hi anne I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don't normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this compliment. If you don’t mind can we be friends? 🌺Thanks God bless you….🌹🌹
Solid information as always! I have a similar tug toy as what you show in this video but I need to teach my dog to stop trying to chew the handles instead of the bite pillow. I think it maybe easier for him to to get his mouth around the straps and that's why he wants to go for them.
Thanks, and I'm glad it was helpful. Ensure he has a solid "out" or "drop it" command. This way, anytime he tries to bite the handle, you can command him to release it. Cheers!
Very nice. I have thirty years of decoy work (Schutzhund, Mondio and Police service) on this old body but I retired to concentrate on my personal dogs. (Hunting dogs for gun and falconry.) I still get requests for information from friends that don't have a local club that want to get started in bite sports and I've been hard pressed to recommend a lot of online information. This is an excellent foundation video with good decoy attitude, presentation, movement and intro to the counter. I hope it's ok if I share.
Hey, Gregg! Thanks for the kind words, I really appreciate it. Means a lot coming from a decoy with as much experience as yourself. Yes, please share with as many people as you think it would be beneficial for. Cheers!
@@NateSchoemer Thank you. I've sent it to two folks already, one girl that titled a III Giant Schnauzer that my wife gave her and is working with a new Terv. And another excellent OB trainer that is coming here next month to start their dog in bite work, also a Giant. Among other things, I wanted them to notice the difference between the Mal and Lab regarding the number of OB commands that you gave each. Charlie, (the same name as my last yellow Lab) received a lot more leeway and was allowed his head much more then the Mal. Great stuff.
Thanks! If your dogs enjoys biting toys, then you can use that to teach the bite command. Hold the toys in front of the dog, say the command, then move back quickly to encourage the dog to bite the toy. You can see an example of that in this video, as well as how to teach the out command. ua-cam.com/video/MbVJJA5wy1Q/v-deo.html
Hey Nate, I am really impressed from your videos I watched most of them and can't wait to get my puppy. I really like how your dog perform the attack command, do you have a video about it?
My favorite part of your repertoire Nate is when all you commands are automatic stay or hold position.. I'd like to train my dog to that also someday..
First of all, you are the best dog trainer I have found so far. Bought your book already even though English isn't my native language. Second, a question - my puppy (4months) would never come back to me with the toy ( she also is a resource guarder, sadly). Even though I always made it a habit to trade it with a treat when playtime ends so it ends positively. Still with a valuable toy she would run away. What could I do? I can put her on a leash, but if she gets the toy and I reel her in with a leash and try to take it back, that would amp up the resource guarding I think. If I play with a ball and have her tug in the pocket, she will bring the ball to me for the tug. And let go of the tug (though not very well) on command. But if I were to let go of that tug ... She wouldn't come back to play with me with a tug or another toy. Just play by herself or even run away with it.
Hi Nate , I seen All of ur videos .I love this Channel and You too. Liked every videos it's very informative . Can I you make a Video about Introducing gun shot ?? Add it to future List......❤️
Thanks! I appreciate that and yes, I'll add it to the list. For now, introduce the gunfire from a distance and associate it with something pleasant, such as play or treats. You can also do this by training outside of a gun range. If your dog is distracted by the gunfire, then increase the distance. Move closer and closer to the gun range until your dog becomes comfortable with it. This training you will be using a combination of counterconditioning and desensitization. I hope that helps and thanks again! :)
I love your channel nate, you have helped soo much with my GSD Maya. I have a small issue. My GSD won't bring the tug toy back. How do I show her it's more fun playing with her human rather then running away protecting her tug toy or any other toy. Love from LONDON
Thanks! Use a long line and have a second tug toy. Guide her back to you with the long line and when she gets to you, use the other tug to get her to drop the old one to play tug with you. Make sure she always wins and that it's fun for her. After using the second toy for a little while, Maybe a week or so. Then you should be able to play with the toy she has as you guide her back to you. On a long enough timeline, she'll start bringing the toy back for play. I hope this helps and thanks for supporting my channel. :)
Two identical toys and exchange one for the other. Let the dog win "his" toy and when he's done celebrating, present your toy, dog comes running, spits his toy, wins your toy from you, you pick up the other toy.
take a long leash. If she doesn't come back give it a subtle pull so the dog comes back, then reward her and continue with tug. Name of the game my man
Hi Nate. This is the 1st vid I've seen of yours and I'm super impressed - guessing I will be binge watching all your others for the next few days. Also it's so impressive that you take the time to respond to all the comments. Can I ask why the word "out" is used? I'm trying to teach my dog tug (he loves grabbing the toy but then after a few seconds he rolls onto his back!) so I've been watching a lot of vids on how to train tug. I noticed most trainers use the word "out" to cue the release of the tug and I'm trying to understand why the word is so popular and if there's a reason for it. I'm trying to ascertain why not use "drop" (or the equivilent) as it seems that it's the same motion from the dog's perspective. I wondered if it was used to indicate that the dog was effectively in play mode? Just I'm trying to train my dog to stop eating food off the ground (unfortunately our neighbourhood is pretty disgusting with food everywhere so he has opportunities daily to scavenge). He's good if I see it 1st and say "leave it" but once he's got it in his mouth I literally have to pry his mouth open and stick my hand down his mouth which must be terribly intrusive for him. At home he's amazing, he'll drop anything (even a fresh meaty bone) on request but he clearly differentiates between indoors /outdoors. Thanks in advance
Thanks for the comment and for supporting the channel, Qwerty! I use the word "out" just out of preference. It really doesn't matter what word you use as long as you're consistent. Cheers! :)
Hi Nate, been watching your videos with a new puppy, they are so helpful. Do you have a video on how to prevent dogs whining or yelping when you are not with them for example there outside and your inside during the day... Is this more seperation anxiety area you've spoken of?
Old ideas and kinda' silly if you look at this video. A proper game of tug is all about the game, not who wins or loses. Dogs will strategise, pull "moves" on you etc.
Great videos Nate. I just started watching and find them simple and really helpful. We have a 4 month lab. Just curious if you are teaching tug just as a game or more to teach them to attack for training. We do not need or want our dog to attach so trying to determine if teaching tug is a good idea. Thanks in advance.
Thanks! Tug is a great way to bond with your new puppy. Playing tug does NOT teach aggression. To the dog, it's a game. :) Just be sure not to play tug too hard when the puppy is teething. If the game hurts the pups teeth, then he may grow to dislike tug.
Dude great video , how do you get the dog to bring the tug back and want to engage with you ?? I have a solid out but my mal won’t come back the way your dogs do I can’t seem to find any videos on it
Thanks! Use a long line and encourage the dog to come to you by walking backwards, using the leash, and praising the dog as he is coming to you. Once he gets to you, play tug and let him win again. Make it fun for him to bring the toy back to you. With enough reps, he's start bringing you the toy on his own. :)
thank you Nate my GSD male 3 years old will not do/play this way [ruff] he will not do anything that might hurt me he will gard me. what can i do? would like to do bite work with him,
Thanks! If you want to do bite work with your dog, then I would highly recommend joining a local protection club. You can find protection clubs with the links below. French Ring Protection Sport: www.ringsport.org/index.php?pg=clubs IGP Protection Sport: www.germanshepherddog.com/events-new/ Protection Sport Association: psak9-as.org/psa-affiliated-club-list/ Mondioring Protection Sport: www.usmondioring.org/clubs/
Thanks! Use a long line and praise her all the way back to you. If she drops it, quickly pick it up and tease her with it to build frustration, then reengage with the tug. You can see an example in this video when Harley drops the toy: ua-cam.com/video/HeVWMcwbf1w/v-deo.html :)
Hi, How can I achieve that? My dog always takes the toy and he does not give it to me like yours do, I would like a recommendation, thank you very much.
another great video. Just curious, why do you specifically train for a rebite? Like what is the purpose. I am building tug right now with my one guy and was told by another trainer that I don't want rebites. I am not saying one is wrong and one is right just interested into the reason and which way would be the better option for me and my guys to go
Great question! It's better and safer for the dog to have a full bite. The re-bite is for the dog to have the full bite, not to chew on the tug. I'm assuming thats what the other trainer meant; that you don't want the dog to chew, which I agree with. Every protection training that I have ever trained with teaches the re-bite, so the dog can have a full bite. :) Lastly, some of the protection sports require a full bite for maximum points. I hope that helps. Cheers!
@@NateSchoemer thank you for taking the time to answer my question! Ohh that makes perfectly sense, specially with protection work, she uses tug more for agility so the biting is not quite as important. Cleared up a lot of confusion on my part on how we play tug and I do think she meant it like that too
Great videos Nate! I’ve learned a lot. My Aussie Shepherd mix often seems to bite my hand during tug play, lurching for the toy and hitting me instead. Is there a way to correct that, aside from not playing? Me and my hands thank you for any advice 😉
It could be because you are moving the toy when your dog goes to bite it. If you are doing that, then your dog is making the adjustment, which may make it seem like your pup is going for your hand. If you want to fix it, start close, tell your dog to bite the toy and don't move your hand. Slowly start to increase the distance and try not to move the toy. Having a tug with two handles makes this a little easier. I hope that helps and thanks for supporting the channel. :) Like this toy: amzn.to/2RTkxIk
I notice you give the command ´out’ to make them loose the grip before starting a new ´attack’ command. So is it so that we first have to make sure the dog knows out how to let go before playing tug? Also you dog lays down beautifull when you told him ´down’. It would never work with my 5 months shiba puppy. He runs aways with the rope. Only if inhave a clicker and high value treat, will he let go. I am able to get him to sit down and look at me betwwen each cycle of tug pulling. So he is pretty good i think.
Nate thank you for answering all my questions...two more for you... 1. My dog isn’t eating a whole lot and just went to the vet and is fine any advice? 8 week old (I’m told) Gsd 12 lbs 2. Just starting to get him to be excited about treats but when he makes eye contact and I give the treat he jumps up any advice for that?
Each dog is going to have a different appetite, just like people. If the vet said it's fine, then I wouldn't worry about it. As far as the jumping for food goes. After you mark, slowly start to lower your hand. When the pup jumps, move your hand away. Once the pup has all four paws back on the ground, start to slowly lower your hand again. It's cause and effect. If he jumps, the food moves away, if he stays, then the food will more towards him. You don't have to talk during this, just move your hand according to his actions. Eventually you will be able to bring the food to him without the jumping.
Hi I have an xl bully who loves to play tug but when I let go she never re engages play just walks off and drops the tug how can I get her to come back to me and play more
I use the technique that I explain in this video. I also show the dog that it's more fun to play with me than to play by themselves ua-cam.com/video/ipRm9ebHgjo/v-deo.html
Here's a small section from my dog training manual, that I believe will be helpful. If you are like a lot of people that would like to use toys in training, but you have a dog that doesn’t seem that motivated for toys, you can use a technique to try and increase your dog’s toy drive. Just keep in mind that not all dogs enjoy playing with toys-even if you do increase their toy drive. The first technique is to “clean house” if you have toys scattered all over the place. In this case it’s much like free feeding a dog. Why would a dog want to work for something they get for free? Your dog must know that the only way he will be able to play with a toy is if he works for it. However, once your dog is willing to work for the toys you can start allowing them to have toys for free during the day. The next technique to enhance toy drive is to build “frustration”. This is the process you’ll want to follow: • Attach a harness or an agitation collar to your dog. The point is just to make sure you can restrain the dog. You can also connect the leash to a pole or any other object to create a back-tie. • Have a friend begin twirling or teasing with a toy just beyond reach of the dog. Building more distance can often create more frustration, so build distance as needed. • Keep doing this until the dog becomes “frustrated” and barks. At this point, give verbal praise and reward the dog with the toy for barking (plus petting and attention, etc.). But make sure you or your friend holds on to the toy while the dog plays with it. A flirt pole or ball-on-a-rope will work great for this. • If the dog releases the toy from the grip, run back and continue the teasing until the dog barks again. • Now it can become like a game: Try to steal the toy from the dog (if the dog lets go of it, don't rip it from the dog), and if successful, return to teasing, and once again reward if the dog barks. • For demonstrations, see my “Teach Your Dog to Bark On Command” video at: www.youtube.com/ HeVWMcwbf1w&t=21s. This helps build toy drive because much like humans, dogs want what they can't have. They also want what others want and have. This works best when you start during the imprinting stage of a dog’s life. However, it can work later in the dog’s life as well.
I have a wonderful (3½ yr old) border collie, Tizzy. She isn't a good tugger. She has tugged in the past, but on occasion she has pinched her lip. When she pinches her lip, she yipes and then she is afraid of the tug, I think she thinks it bit her. She has done it with other toys too and then doesn't want to play with them. I've had good tuggers in the past, so I know what it's all about. Is there a way to get Tizzy to be a good tugger? At this time she is my only dog.
It's tough when they develop a fear like that. I would try attaching the tug to a parachute cord and using that to move around the toy to try to kick in the pup's prey drive. When she bites it, just keep it alive by doing small repeated pulls to keep the toy active. Many dogs will drop a toy after they get it because it stops moving; the parachute cord will help prevent this. Then, if possible, slowly pull the cord to you so you can grab the tug and continue the play. Make sure she is getting lots of wins while playing.
As early as 8 weeks of age, just be light with the play, so you don't hurt the puppy and let them win to build their confidence. I started with Arih at 8 weeks of age.
Hi Nate. Thank you for the all great info in your videos . I'm having trouble with my American Bully pup (6 months) playing tug. She wants to abandon the game sometimes and nip at me instead. What can I do to adjust this behavior and still keep it fun. Honestly, she sometimes gets so wound up that it's unnerving. When this happens, it's really hard to stay calm myself. Please help!
Hi Luci how are I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don't normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this compliment. If you don’t mind can we be friends? 🌺Thanks God bless you….🌹🌹
Should i worry that my pup really doesnt want to play, or have i not figured out what drives him, this has been an issue since bring him home, but food drive is off the charts
What can you do if your dog always holds as close to my hand as she can get. I have different tug toys and she will always go for as close to my hand as possible. I’ll switch sides of the toy and she rebites on that side. It gives me nothing to hold onto and is too close for comfort sometimes even though I know she’s not trying to get my hand.
Thanks! I encouraged them to jump towards me by moving backwards and gesturing with my hands to bring the tug to me. Most dogs will naturally jump up. Once they do I grab the tug and continue the play to reward the dog for that behavior. :)
Use a long line and encourage the dog to come back with praise. Once back, make the tug fun and let the pup win. Continue to do this until your dog chooses to bring it back to you since it should be more fun to play with you than it is for the pup to play by himself. Cheers!
what should i do if after i give my dog the win by letting go, my dog runs off and justr drops the toy elsewhere and gets distracted sniffing? like how do i get my dog to WANT to come back and play tug with me
I would use a long-line and cue the dog back to me with the leash pressure. Just be sure to teach your dog how to respond to the leash first. Leash pressure: ua-cam.com/video/9L8tK7mSD10/v-deo.html
If the dog doesn’t come back with the toy to have tug again and takes it away then wat does it mean???? How to correct it???? I have a Rottweiler male...
Some dogs prefer to run off with the toy. You can usually fix this by using a long line and a second toy. You can see an example of it in the video below. Just replace the balls in the video with whatever toy you're using. ua-cam.com/video/ipRm9ebHgjo/v-deo.html
Nate plz give me some healthy dog food brands dry and wet. I have a puppy Shepard 11weeks. I was recommended sport thru Chewy...but she doesn't really like it.
Hi Randy! I have a series on French Ring Protection training and I'm releasing a new episode in the series tomorrow. I'll be making a personal protection series in the near future. ua-cam.com/video/tQHdtGuViVk/v-deo.html
Try drive building, like demonstrated in this video. If you don't have a training partner, you can put your dog on a back-tie and do the same training: ua-cam.com/video/HeVWMcwbf1w/v-deo.html
Yes, that's very common. Put a long line on the pup and when you release the toy, run backward, praising the dog and using the long line to help guide the pup back to you. When you do get your dog back to you, don't take the toy back, but rather play more tug and allow your dog to win again. Make your dog believe that he can win it from you every time if he chooses. If you do want the tug back, don't take it from him, but instead ask him to drop the toy. ua-cam.com/video/MbVJJA5wy1Q/v-deo.html
Ah what a sweet video with amazing tips! Thank you😊 Do you have any tip for teaching my one year old who seems have a tendency to bite close to my hand? I feel like he might bite my hands if I use the tag toy like yours.
Thanks! Dogs have excellent targeting. Often if they are biting close to the hand it's because the human moves before the dog bites, so the dog learns to adjust the bite for the movement of the human. Start close and tell the dog to bite the toy, and be sure not to move until the dog bites. Continue to increase distance as the dog gets better.
Thank you! Your videos are always helpful. Question - do you think playing tug with a young puppy who still hasn’t learned not to play bite is a bad idea? My 9 week mal puppy is still very bitey and I try to make her leave hands/ankles alone (no!, redirection, time-outs...) but she loves playing tug. Could it be confusing to her that I correct biting me but I encourage biting the tug toy?
It helps to give your pup an icecube to chew on, this numbs the gums a bit. Their gums need pressure because of their growing teeth, icecubes can help this a little bit! If your dog doesn't like plain watercubes, try freezing some chicken broth! But don't give them too much as the cold isn't always too healthy in big quantities (as with everything). But also redirecting the pup to a toy instead of legs/hands is the way to go!
No, if anything playing tug should help with the issue. Malinois puppies need to bite, so it's important to show them what they can bite and not just what they can't bite. :)
Thanks for the video Nate! Love it! Could you please recommend any tug toys for GSD? Our dog loves to play with a garden brush but she can't fully bite it. We also play with old towels but not sure it's right either. Thanks!
Thanks! Old towels are fine as long as they are clean. :) I use rags and towels with puppies all the time. Here's the tug that I was using in the video, but you can also google search tug toys to find a lot of good options. Tug toy used in video: amzn.to/2RTkxIk www.dogsportgear.com/Tug-Toys_c_47.html
I am glad I watched this. I stopped playing tug with my German Shepherd - because I thought you weren't supposed to always let them win :( I can lift him off the floor - and he still will not let go. Will give it to me when I ask and always brings it back for more play.
@@NateSchoemer Thank you Nate. Milo is very happy - tug is his favorite game and I have been playing again. He would drag me with it - not fun. What I notice now - is because I am not concerned with winning - he has adjusted the play - so I can hold on longer. We are now having loads of fun :)
My dog, a rescued female GSD, will chase and catch only one ball that she had at the shelter and will only tug, an oversized inflatable, "tennis" ball indoors but just IF we rev her up by playing catch with it.
Hi Nate, I have a fear reactive and aggressive Dobie/rottie cross - we have brought a behaviourist in and he suggests we don't play tug with him because he challenges us. What do you think of this ? Our dog knows how to "out" and has good obedience, but according to the the behaviourist he only plays the good boy role when there's something in it for him.
I think I messed up with my GSD teaching tug. Its his favorite game, but he just likes to bite and hold on to it. He doesn't try to take it from me. He just holds on while I try to shake him loose. I did notice you said not to jerk it, which I do, so I will stop that. I will push him around and he will try to resist the pushes, but I think it wears me out more than him. There is no backing up, head jerking or trying to take it from me. He's totally happy just hanging on until I "give up". I will try to start pushing him away when he re-engages, good tip. If I use a flirt toy he will try to drag it out of the sun into the shade. I wish he would do that with his tug. He just seems to be extremely happy holding the tug with me. Thank you for any guidance.
Depends on the dog. Sometimes too much eye contact can be stressful for a "less confident" dog. As they become more confident, you can then increase the length of the eye contact.
Is there a risk of undermining your 'dominance' over your teenage or adult dog (for want of a better word) if they regularly beat you in these types of encounters?
My 4.5 month old will try to bite closer and closer to my hand until I feel her teeth just grazing me. It only happens occasionally. Is it something I'm doing wrong or is she just trying to intimidate me? All other puppy nipping and biting has stopped. Any tips to stop this behavior from being rehearsed?
It could be because you are moving the toy when your dog goes to bite it. If you are doing that, then your dog is making the adjustment, which may make it seem like she is going for your hand. If you want to fix it, start close, tell her to bite the toy and don't move your hand. Slowly start to increase the distance and try not to move the toy. Having a tug with two handles makes this a little easier. I hope that helps and thanks for supporting the channel. :)
Hey Nate. I love the info. Makes me sad that I'm not even at this point lol. My tug is the kind with 1 handle. I'm finding my dog doesn't want to bite the middle of the tug and only the very opposite end from then handle. If I hold both ends and offer the middle to her, she has 0 interest and will simply walk away from me. She only wants to play if I hold it by the handle so she can bite the very end. 🥲
Thanks for showing that not all dogs are equal, and you must change training with each dog. Great video as always.
Thanks, Jimmy! I appreciate that! :)
I love this!!! Never would have thought their was a strategy for playing tug, and learning how important it is to let my insecure dog win! Thank you so much!
Thanks, Mel! I'm happy the video was helpful. :)
This video is really good dude!!! I use tug as a fundamental part of my training, and having recently adopted a 5.5 month old Mali x Dutch Shepherd who hadn't seen anything of the world, nor has had toys, little bite tugs etc it was a case of starting late, we have made lots of progress, BUT her mouthing/re-biting/getting a solid grip on the back teeth has been a real pain in the 🍑 if I'm honest (and my hand has the scars to prove it).
I'm so glad I came across your video as you are doing something a little differently to me for the re-bite so I'm going to give that a go!
This is one of the best videos out there if I'm honest on the fundamentals on playing tug, and I appreciate your efforts 🙌
Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience! It sounds like you’re doing great work with your Mali x Dutch Shepherd, especially considering the late start. Tug is such a fantastic training tool, and I’m glad you’re finding the video helpful for addressing the re-bite and grip challenges.
Mouthing and re-biting can definitely be frustrating (and painful-those scars are no joke!), but with consistent technique and patience, progress will come. I’m excited to hear how implementing some of the tips from the video works out for you.
Thank you again for the support and for taking the time to comment-it really means a lot. Keep up the great work, and happy training! 🙌
Impressive channel with an impressive dog educator and trainer! I learn so much from you despite the fair amount of experience I already have. You should have an academy if you don't already. Thank you so much!
Thank you very much, I really appreciate that!
Hi! I'm from Colombia and i had not found a channel in Spanish with information as valuable like this. Thank you very much, it has been very helpful! Greetings.
Thanks! I'm happy the videos are helpful. :)
Your connection with the dogs is incredible. Congratulations bro. I love your training
Thank you, Juma! :)
I really like your explanation of the finer details. I put this video in the same caliber as a couple of the leerberg playing tug videos. I will definitely add it to my playlist.
Awesome, Thank you!
Short and sweet , on point ..thanks Nate
Thank you! :)
So glad I found your channel, very informative. My GSD pup from working lines arrives in 6 weeks as an 8 wk old,, I’m a bit of a sponge re: IGP training. Appreciate your efforts from Australia.
Awesome! Thanks, and I'm happy the videos are helping. :)
Thank you for the info. Another great video on how to handle my 2 Belgian Malinois. Stay safe Sir..
Thank you, I appreciate that! :)
Learned a few new techniques from your video.
Glad it was helpful! :)
Great video! My pup loves playing tugs!
Thanks buddy! :)
Another great video, thanks so much. Thumbs up.
Thanks, Ron!
Thank you! That was very helpful.
Glad it was helpful and thanks for watching!
Great video Nate! Thanks for sharing. interesting, the difference in adapting to the dog bite.
Thanks! I appreciate that! :)
Great tips always Nate
Blummin thank you! My puppy's a lot like Charlie in terms of his tug, so this was very helpful.
Hi anne I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don't normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this compliment. If you don’t mind can we be friends? 🌺Thanks God bless you….🌹🌹
Your videos are awesome and so helpful, Nate! Please continue to do them 😊
Solid information as always! I have a similar tug toy as what you show in this video but I need to teach my dog to stop trying to chew the handles instead of the bite pillow. I think it maybe easier for him to to get his mouth around the straps and that's why he wants to go for them.
Thanks, and I'm glad it was helpful. Ensure he has a solid "out" or "drop it" command. This way, anytime he tries to bite the handle, you can command him to release it. Cheers!
@@NateSchoemer he does pretty well with drop it and it looks like it just took some repetition for him to understand. Thanks Nate!
Thanks Nate another great video and advice 👏🏻👏🏻😁
Thank you, Susan! :)
Charlie is so cute. I love that tug play with Arih gets you out of breath also. Good for building stamina for BJJ. :)
Lol! I blame quarantine for my recent poor cardio! Lol!
Very nice. I have thirty years of decoy work (Schutzhund, Mondio and Police service) on this old body but I retired to concentrate on my personal dogs. (Hunting dogs for gun and falconry.) I still get requests for information from friends that don't have a local club that want to get started in bite sports and I've been hard pressed to recommend a lot of online information. This is an excellent foundation video with good decoy attitude, presentation, movement and intro to the counter. I hope it's ok if I share.
Hey, Gregg! Thanks for the kind words, I really appreciate it. Means a lot coming from a decoy with as much experience as yourself. Yes, please share with as many people as you think it would be beneficial for. Cheers!
@@NateSchoemer Thank you. I've sent it to two folks already, one girl that titled a III Giant Schnauzer that my wife gave her and is working with a new Terv. And another excellent OB trainer that is coming here next month to start their dog in bite work, also a Giant. Among other things, I wanted them to notice the difference between the Mal and Lab regarding the number of OB commands that you gave each. Charlie, (the same name as my last yellow Lab) received a lot more leeway and was allowed his head much more then the Mal. Great stuff.
How do you teach your dog the "attack" and "out" command when playing tug? Cool video!!
Thanks! If your dogs enjoys biting toys, then you can use that to teach the bite command. Hold the toys in front of the dog, say the command, then move back quickly to encourage the dog to bite the toy. You can see an example of that in this video, as well as how to teach the out command. ua-cam.com/video/MbVJJA5wy1Q/v-deo.html
Great video thanks learning alot from you pal 👍💪
Thanks, Asam!
this was really good. now I can play tug when I get my new black German Shepard. thank you. :)
Yay! Thanks! :)
Hey Nate, I am really impressed from your videos I watched most of them and can't wait to get my puppy. I really like how your dog perform the attack command, do you have a video about it?
Soo good. Love your videos im totally making notes
Thank you! 😁🐶🙏🐕
My favorite part of your repertoire Nate is when all you commands are automatic stay or hold position.. I'd like to train my dog to that also someday..
Thanks! I'm sure you can do it! :)
First of all, you are the best dog trainer I have found so far. Bought your book already even though English isn't my native language.
Second, a question - my puppy (4months) would never come back to me with the toy ( she also is a resource guarder, sadly). Even though I always made it a habit to trade it with a treat when playtime ends so it ends positively. Still with a valuable toy she would run away. What could I do? I can put her on a leash, but if she gets the toy and I reel her in with a leash and try to take it back, that would amp up the resource guarding I think.
If I play with a ball and have her tug in the pocket, she will bring the ball to me for the tug. And let go of the tug (though not very well) on command. But if I were to let go of that tug ... She wouldn't come back to play with me with a tug or another toy. Just play by herself or even run away with it.
Hey! Love this channel, can you please provide the link for the tug toy product?
Thank you very much, love your videos.
Would you consider making one with a puppy?
Thanks! Yes, that's something I can do in the future. You can see an example in this video with Bethany! :) ua-cam.com/video/QNba6DA0l2M/v-deo.html
Thats why you have that arms😂💪💪💪
Good Vídeo
Thank you
Hahaha! Thanks, Paulo! :)
I know! Fun way to work out for human and dog! 😄
Hi Nate ,
I seen All of ur videos .I love this Channel and You too. Liked every videos it's very informative .
Can I you make a Video about Introducing gun shot ?? Add it to future List......❤️
Thanks! I appreciate that and yes, I'll add it to the list. For now, introduce the gunfire from a distance and associate it with something pleasant, such as play or treats. You can also do this by training outside of a gun range. If your dog is distracted by the gunfire, then increase the distance. Move closer and closer to the gun range until your dog becomes comfortable with it. This training you will be using a combination of counterconditioning and desensitization. I hope that helps and thanks again! :)
@@NateSchoemer ❤️❤️
I love your channel nate, you have helped soo much with my GSD Maya. I have a small issue. My GSD won't bring the tug toy back. How do I show her it's more fun playing with her human rather then running away protecting her tug toy or any other toy. Love from LONDON
Thanks! Use a long line and have a second tug toy. Guide her back to you with the long line and when she gets to you, use the other tug to get her to drop the old one to play tug with you. Make sure she always wins and that it's fun for her. After using the second toy for a little while, Maybe a week or so. Then you should be able to play with the toy she has as you guide her back to you. On a long enough timeline, she'll start bringing the toy back for play. I hope this helps and thanks for supporting my channel. :)
Hi I just found your channel and am loving your videos. Im just wondering what tug toys you recommend? I have a black lab puppy.
Most tug toys will work. This is the one I was using in the video: amzn.to/2RTkxIk
Hi, how can you do to make your dog to return with the toy? And can you make a video showing us how to teach the out?
Two identical toys and exchange one for the other. Let the dog win "his" toy and when he's done celebrating, present your toy, dog comes running, spits his toy, wins your toy from you, you pick up the other toy.
take a long leash. If she doesn't come back give it a subtle pull so the dog comes back, then reward her and continue with tug. Name of the game my man
ua-cam.com/video/ipRm9ebHgjo/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/MbVJJA5wy1Q/v-deo.html
Nate Schoemer thank you so much!☺️
Hi Nate. This is the 1st vid I've seen of yours and I'm super impressed - guessing I will be binge watching all your others for the next few days. Also it's so impressive that you take the time to respond to all the comments.
Can I ask why the word "out" is used?
I'm trying to teach my dog tug (he loves grabbing the toy but then after a few seconds he rolls onto his back!) so I've been watching a lot of vids on how to train tug. I noticed most trainers use the word "out" to cue the release of the tug and I'm trying to understand why the word is so popular and if there's a reason for it.
I'm trying to ascertain why not use "drop" (or the equivilent) as it seems that it's the same motion from the dog's perspective. I wondered if it was used to indicate that the dog was effectively in play mode?
Just I'm trying to train my dog to stop eating food off the ground (unfortunately our neighbourhood is pretty disgusting with food everywhere so he has opportunities daily to scavenge). He's good if I see it 1st and say "leave it" but once he's got it in his mouth I literally have to pry his mouth open and stick my hand down his mouth which must be terribly intrusive for him. At home he's amazing, he'll drop anything (even a fresh meaty bone) on request but he clearly differentiates between indoors /outdoors.
Thanks in advance
Thanks for the comment and for supporting the channel, Qwerty! I use the word "out" just out of preference. It really doesn't matter what word you use as long as you're consistent. Cheers! :)
Hi Nate, been watching your videos with a new puppy, they are so helpful.
Do you have a video on how to prevent dogs whining or yelping when you are not with them for example there outside and your inside during the day... Is this more seperation anxiety area you've spoken of?
Thanks! Check out this Q&A video and jump to 37:08 ua-cam.com/video/3lBJFcWiAzk/v-deo.html
hey Nate at 2:14 The command to bite. Is that French? Attaque?
Lol! Yes, I started saying it that way when training for french ring. :)
Good vidio ty. I thought never let them win to show who is boss
Old ideas and kinda' silly if you look at this video. A proper game of tug is all about the game, not who wins or loses. Dogs will strategise, pull "moves" on you etc.
Thank you!I used to think the same thing before I became a dog trainer. :)
Hi I love watching your vids💖... How did you teach your dog when you give the tug to Arih and she wants you to hold the tug😊
Thanks! I taught her that tug is always more fun when we are playing together.
@@NateSchoemer thank you😃😃😃
How'd you teach the attack command.
Great videos Nate. I just started watching and find them simple and really helpful. We have a 4 month lab. Just curious if you are teaching tug just as a game or more to teach them to attack for training. We do not need or want our dog to attach so trying to determine if teaching tug is a good idea. Thanks in advance.
Thanks! Tug is a great way to bond with your new puppy. Playing tug does NOT teach aggression. To the dog, it's a game. :) Just be sure not to play tug too hard when the puppy is teething. If the game hurts the pups teeth, then he may grow to dislike tug.
Dude great video , how do you get the dog to bring the tug back and want to engage with you ?? I have a solid out but my mal won’t come back the way your dogs do I can’t seem to find any videos on it
Thanks! Use a long line and encourage the dog to come to you by walking backwards, using the leash, and praising the dog as he is coming to you. Once he gets to you, play tug and let him win again. Make it fun for him to bring the toy back to you. With enough reps, he's start bringing you the toy on his own. :)
thank you Nate my GSD male 3 years old will not do/play this way [ruff] he will not do anything that might hurt me he will gard me. what can i do? would like to do bite work with him,
Thanks! If you want to do bite work with your dog, then I would highly recommend joining a local protection club.
You can find protection clubs with the links below.
French Ring Protection Sport: www.ringsport.org/index.php?pg=clubs
IGP Protection Sport: www.germanshepherddog.com/events-new/
Protection Sport Association: psak9-as.org/psa-affiliated-club-list/
Mondioring Protection Sport: www.usmondioring.org/clubs/
Love your videos, very informative
My dog likes to tug, but once I release it, she just runs off with it.
How do I get her to re-engage with me?
Thanks! Use a long line and praise her all the way back to you. If she drops it, quickly pick it up and tease her with it to build frustration, then reengage with the tug. You can see an example in this video when Harley drops the toy: ua-cam.com/video/HeVWMcwbf1w/v-deo.html :)
Nice
Thanks, Ramesh! :)
Hi, How can I achieve that? My dog always takes the toy and he does not give it to me like yours do, I would like a recommendation, thank you very much.
Use a long line to help guide your dog back to you. Be sure to make it fun and let your dog win the tug game. :)
another great video. Just curious, why do you specifically train for a rebite? Like what is the purpose. I am building tug right now with my one guy and was told by another trainer that I don't want rebites. I am not saying one is wrong and one is right just interested into the reason and which way would be the better option for me and my guys to go
Great question! It's better and safer for the dog to have a full bite. The re-bite is for the dog to have the full bite, not to chew on the tug. I'm assuming thats what the other trainer meant; that you don't want the dog to chew, which I agree with. Every protection training that I have ever trained with teaches the re-bite, so the dog can have a full bite. :) Lastly, some of the protection sports require a full bite for maximum points. I hope that helps. Cheers!
@@NateSchoemer thank you for taking the time to answer my question! Ohh that makes perfectly sense, specially with protection work, she uses tug more for agility so the biting is not quite as important. Cleared up a lot of confusion on my part on how we play tug and I do think she meant it like that too
Great videos Nate! I’ve learned a lot. My Aussie Shepherd mix often seems to bite my hand during tug play, lurching for the toy and hitting me instead. Is there a way to correct that, aside from not playing? Me and my hands thank you for any advice 😉
It could be because you are moving the toy when your dog goes to bite it. If you are doing that, then your dog is making the adjustment, which may make it seem like your pup is going for your hand. If you want to fix it, start close, tell your dog to bite the toy and don't move your hand. Slowly start to increase the distance and try not to move the toy. Having a tug with two handles makes this a little easier. I hope that helps and thanks for supporting the channel. :) Like this toy: amzn.to/2RTkxIk
I notice you give the command ´out’ to make them loose the grip before starting a new ´attack’ command. So is it so that we first have to make sure the dog knows out how to let go before playing tug? Also you dog lays down beautifull when you told him ´down’. It would never work with my 5 months shiba puppy. He runs aways with the rope. Only if inhave a clicker and high value treat, will he let go. I am able to get him to sit down and look at me betwwen each cycle of tug pulling. So he is pretty good i think.
Nate thank you for answering all my questions...two more for you...
1. My dog isn’t eating a whole lot and just went to the vet and is fine any advice? 8 week old (I’m told) Gsd 12 lbs
2. Just starting to get him to be excited about treats but when he makes eye contact and I give the treat he jumps up any advice for that?
Each dog is going to have a different appetite, just like people. If the vet said it's fine, then I wouldn't worry about it. As far as the jumping for food goes. After you mark, slowly start to lower your hand. When the pup jumps, move your hand away. Once the pup has all four paws back on the ground, start to slowly lower your hand again. It's cause and effect. If he jumps, the food moves away, if he stays, then the food will more towards him. You don't have to talk during this, just move your hand according to his actions. Eventually you will be able to bring the food to him without the jumping.
Hi I have an xl bully who loves to play tug but when I let go she never re engages play just walks off and drops the tug how can I get her to come back to me and play more
try the longline technique that I explain in this video: ua-cam.com/video/ipRm9ebHgjo/v-deo.html :)
Hello, how do you teach your dogs to bring back the toy to tug again?
I use the technique that I explain in this video. I also show the dog that it's more fun to play with me than to play by themselves ua-cam.com/video/ipRm9ebHgjo/v-deo.html
How do you get a dog to like toys? My lab has little interest in fetch or tug and after a minute or so she stops playing.
Here's a small section from my dog training manual, that I believe will be helpful.
If you are like a lot of people that would like to use toys in training,
but you have a dog that doesn’t seem that motivated for toys, you can
use a technique to try and increase your dog’s toy drive. Just keep in
mind that not all dogs enjoy playing with toys-even if you do
increase their toy drive.
The first technique is to “clean house” if you have toys scattered all
over the place. In this case it’s much like free feeding a dog. Why
would a dog want to work for something they get for free? Your dog
must know that the only way he will be able to play with a toy is if he
works for it. However, once your dog is willing to work for the toys
you can start allowing them to have toys for free during the day.
The next technique to enhance toy drive is to build “frustration”. This
is the process you’ll want to follow:
• Attach a harness or an agitation collar to your dog. The point
is just to make sure you can restrain the dog. You can also
connect the leash to a pole or any other object to create a
back-tie.
• Have a friend begin twirling or teasing with a toy just beyond
reach of the dog. Building more distance can often create
more frustration, so build distance as needed.
• Keep doing this until the dog becomes “frustrated” and barks.
At this point, give verbal praise and reward the dog with the
toy for barking (plus petting and attention, etc.). But make
sure you or your friend holds on to the toy while the dog
plays with it. A flirt pole or ball-on-a-rope will work great for
this.
• If the dog releases the toy from the grip, run back and
continue the teasing until the dog barks again.
• Now it can become like a game: Try to steal the toy from the
dog (if the dog lets go of it, don't rip it from the dog), and if
successful, return to teasing, and once again reward if the dog
barks.
• For demonstrations, see my “Teach Your Dog to Bark On
Command” video at: www.youtube.com/
HeVWMcwbf1w&t=21s.
This helps build toy drive because much like humans, dogs want
what they can't have. They also want what others want and have.
This works best when you start during the imprinting stage of a
dog’s life. However, it can work later in the dog’s life as well.
I have a wonderful (3½ yr old) border collie, Tizzy. She isn't a good tugger. She has tugged in the past, but on occasion she has pinched her lip. When she pinches her lip, she yipes and then she is afraid of the tug, I think she thinks it bit her. She has done it with other toys too and then doesn't want to play with them. I've had good tuggers in the past, so I know what it's all about. Is there a way to get Tizzy to be a good tugger? At this time she is my only dog.
It's tough when they develop a fear like that. I would try attaching the tug to a parachute cord and using that to move around the toy to try to kick in the pup's prey drive. When she bites it, just keep it alive by doing small repeated pulls to keep the toy active. Many dogs will drop a toy after they get it because it stops moving; the parachute cord will help prevent this. Then, if possible, slowly pull the cord to you so you can grab the tug and continue the play. Make sure she is getting lots of wins while playing.
It’s not basics , it is more advanced for me and my GSD . :)
Thanks! I may move it to the advanced obedience then. :)
What age puppies we can play this
As early as 8 weeks of age, just be light with the play, so you don't hurt the puppy and let them win to build their confidence. I started with Arih at 8 weeks of age.
Hi Nate. Thank you for the all great info in your videos . I'm having trouble with my American Bully pup (6 months) playing tug. She wants to abandon the game sometimes and nip at me instead. What can I do to adjust this behavior and still keep it fun. Honestly, she sometimes gets so wound up that it's unnerving. When this happens, it's really hard to stay calm myself. Please help!
Hi Luci how are I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don't normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this compliment. If you don’t mind can we be friends? 🌺Thanks God bless you….🌹🌹
Should i worry that my pup really doesnt want to play, or have i not figured out what drives him, this has been an issue since bring him home, but food drive is off the charts
High food drive is great for training. :)
What can you do if your dog always holds as close to my hand as she can get. I have different tug toys and she will always go for as close to my hand as possible. I’ll switch sides of the toy and she rebites on that side. It gives me nothing to hold onto and is too close for comfort sometimes even though I know she’s not trying to get my hand.
Very nice job, can you tell me how to teach you dog jump to you, when you play tug of war with your dog 🐶
Thanks! I encouraged them to jump towards me by moving backwards and gesturing with my hands to bring the tug to me. Most dogs will naturally jump up. Once they do I grab the tug and continue the play to reward the dog for that behavior. :)
How do you get the dog to bring it back? Mine just takes it and chews.
Use a long line and encourage the dog to come back with praise. Once back, make the tug fun and let the pup win. Continue to do this until your dog chooses to bring it back to you since it should be more fun to play with you than it is for the pup to play by himself. Cheers!
@@NateSchoemer thanks for taking the time to respond!
What command is for your dog to get the toy?
I say attack, but you can use whatever word you like. :)
What kind of lab is Charlie?
He's a fox red British lab. :)
@@NateSchoemer He's Beautiful, my husband loves his personality.
what should i do if after i give my dog the win by letting go, my dog runs off and justr drops the toy elsewhere and gets distracted sniffing? like how do i get my dog to WANT to come back and play tug with me
I would use a long-line and cue the dog back to me with the leash pressure. Just be sure to teach your dog how to respond to the leash first.
Leash pressure: ua-cam.com/video/9L8tK7mSD10/v-deo.html
If the dog doesn’t come back with the toy to have tug again and takes it away then wat does it mean???? How to correct it???? I have a Rottweiler male...
Some dogs prefer to run off with the toy. You can usually fix this by using a long line and a second toy. You can see an example of it in the video below. Just replace the balls in the video with whatever toy you're using. ua-cam.com/video/ipRm9ebHgjo/v-deo.html
Thanks...will try it on my dog 👍👍👍
Nate plz give me some healthy dog food brands dry and wet.
I have a puppy Shepard 11weeks.
I was recommended sport thru Chewy...but she doesn't really like it.
This site should help you find the right food for your dog. :) www.dogfoodadvisor.com/
Hi Nate, have you or will you have videos on teaching personal protection??
Hi Randy! I have a series on French Ring Protection training and I'm releasing a new episode in the series tomorrow. I'll be making a personal protection series in the near future. ua-cam.com/video/tQHdtGuViVk/v-deo.html
👍👍👍
Thanks! 😁🐶🙏🐕
@@NateSchoemer np thanks for all the help!
My dog doesn't have interest for tug play, how can I interest him in the game?
Try drive building, like demonstrated in this video. If you don't have a training partner, you can put your dog on a back-tie and do the same training: ua-cam.com/video/HeVWMcwbf1w/v-deo.html
@@NateSchoemer thank you, you are one of a little that answer. Really appreciate you effort
It’s good watching the lessons when the dogs aren’t perfect, its more realistic. Why do you stroke the dog during tug play?.
it helps to teach the dog to not let go even if being touched.
@@octanejimmy thanks..
What Jimmy said and it's also a way to reward the dog during play. :)
Anyone experienced a dog that likes to play with the tug but when you let go it he runs away and asks to be chased?
Yes, that's very common. Put a long line on the pup and when you release the toy, run backward, praising the dog and using the long line to help guide the pup back to you. When you do get your dog back to you, don't take the toy back, but rather play more tug and allow your dog to win again. Make your dog believe that he can win it from you every time if he chooses. If you do want the tug back, don't take it from him, but instead ask him to drop the toy. ua-cam.com/video/MbVJJA5wy1Q/v-deo.html
@@NateSchoemer Thanks a lot Nate🙏🏻
Hello nate , are those all your dogs ?
Hi, Ahmad! Yes, Charlie and Arih are both my dogs. :)
Ah what a sweet video with amazing tips! Thank you😊
Do you have any tip for teaching my one year old who seems have a tendency to bite close to my hand? I feel like he might bite my hands if I use the tag toy like yours.
Thanks! Dogs have excellent targeting. Often if they are biting close to the hand it's because the human moves before the dog bites, so the dog learns to adjust the bite for the movement of the human. Start close and tell the dog to bite the toy, and be sure not to move until the dog bites. Continue to increase distance as the dog gets better.
@@NateSchoemer thank you for the tip. I’ll work on that!!
👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😊😊😊
Thanks, Adam!
@@NateSchoemer no .. thank you
What if my dog just let go anytime I pull even lightly
When the dog drops it, I then tease the dog for a moment to get them to have more drive and desire to hold the toy next time they get a bite.
👍👍👍👍
Thanks! :)
Thank you! Your videos are always helpful.
Question - do you think playing tug with a young puppy who still hasn’t learned not to play bite is a bad idea?
My 9 week mal puppy is still very bitey and I try to make her leave hands/ankles alone (no!, redirection, time-outs...) but she loves playing tug. Could it be confusing to her that I correct biting me but I encourage biting the tug toy?
Better to redirect them to a toy that your ankle. Dogs are very situational and can figure out really quickly what they should bite
It helps to give your pup an icecube to chew on, this numbs the gums a bit. Their gums need pressure because of their growing teeth, icecubes can help this a little bit! If your dog doesn't like plain watercubes, try freezing some chicken broth! But don't give them too much as the cold isn't always too healthy in big quantities (as with everything). But also redirecting the pup to a toy instead of legs/hands is the way to go!
No, if anything playing tug should help with the issue. Malinois puppies need to bite, so it's important to show them what they can bite and not just what they can't bite. :)
Nate Schoemer thank you!
Thanks for the video Nate! Love it! Could you please recommend any tug toys for GSD? Our dog loves to play with a garden brush but she can't fully bite it. We also play with old towels but not sure it's right either. Thanks!
Thanks! Old towels are fine as long as they are clean. :) I use rags and towels with puppies all the time. Here's the tug that I was using in the video, but you can also google search tug toys to find a lot of good options. Tug toy used in video: amzn.to/2RTkxIk
www.dogsportgear.com/Tug-Toys_c_47.html
I am glad I watched this. I stopped playing tug with my German Shepherd - because I thought you weren't supposed to always let them win :( I can lift him off the floor - and he still will not let go. Will give it to me when I ask and always brings it back for more play.
I'm happy the video helped! :)
@@NateSchoemer Thank you Nate. Milo is very happy - tug is his favorite game and I have been playing again. He would drag me with it - not fun.
What I notice now - is because I am not concerned with winning - he has adjusted the play - so I can hold on longer. We are now having loads of fun :)
My dog, a rescued female GSD, will chase and catch only one ball that she had at the shelter and will only tug, an oversized inflatable, "tennis" ball indoors but just IF we rev her up by playing catch with it.
How to teach your dog to attack in command?
Check out my protection training videos. I'm also working on adding more episodes to the protection series. Thanks! :)
Hi Nate, I have a fear reactive and aggressive Dobie/rottie cross - we have brought a behaviourist in and he suggests we don't play tug with him because he challenges us.
What do you think of this ?
Our dog knows how to "out" and has good obedience, but according to the the behaviourist he only plays the good boy role when there's something in it for him.
I think I messed up with my GSD teaching tug. Its his favorite game, but he just likes to bite and hold on to it. He doesn't try to take it from me. He just holds on while I try to shake him loose. I did notice you said not to jerk it, which I do, so I will stop that.
I will push him around and he will try to resist the pushes, but I think it wears me out more than him. There is no backing up, head jerking or trying to take it from me. He's totally happy just hanging on until I "give up". I will try to start pushing him away when he re-engages, good tip.
If I use a flirt toy he will try to drag it out of the sun into the shade. I wish he would do that with his tug. He just seems to be extremely happy holding the tug with me.
Thank you for any guidance.
Thanks! It sounds like your dog enjoys playing tug with you, so I don't think you messed up. He just has a different playing style. :)
👍👍👍👌👌👌👌👊👊👊💪💪💪❤❤❤
Thanks! :)
Why "not a bunch of eye contact?"
Depends on the dog. Sometimes too much eye contact can be stressful for a "less confident" dog. As they become more confident, you can then increase the length of the eye contact.
Is there a risk of undermining your 'dominance' over your teenage or adult dog (for want of a better word) if they regularly beat you in these types of encounters?
Not from my experience.
Do u ever let ari an charlie do tug with each other? Or would Ari always win cuz her bite is stronger
They do on occasion, but yes, Arih always wins. Lol!
My 4.5 month old will try to bite closer and closer to my hand until I feel her teeth just grazing me. It only happens occasionally. Is it something I'm doing wrong or is she just trying to intimidate me? All other puppy nipping and biting has stopped. Any tips to stop this behavior from being rehearsed?
It could be because you are moving the toy when your dog goes to bite it. If you are doing that, then your dog is making the adjustment, which may make it seem like she is going for your hand. If you want to fix it, start close, tell her to bite the toy and don't move your hand. Slowly start to increase the distance and try not to move the toy. Having a tug with two handles makes this a little easier. I hope that helps and thanks for supporting the channel. :)
Hey Nate. I love the info. Makes me sad that I'm not even at this point lol. My tug is the kind with 1 handle. I'm finding my dog doesn't want to bite the middle of the tug and only the very opposite end from then handle. If I hold both ends and offer the middle to her, she has 0 interest and will simply walk away from me. She only wants to play if I hold it by the handle so she can bite the very end. 🥲
That lab is incredible. I'm curious about his coat color? He almost looks like a lab-hound/pit mix of some sort.
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감사합니다 :)
how to make the dog bring it back to you 😂
This guys 💪 are bigger than my thighs!
Man malinois really can be like german sheperds on steroids. That's why I love mine
Yeah, they are so awesome! :)