28/05/2026
Ced is enjoying the game of tug
Moose is enjoying possessing the toy
The differences are subtle, but knowing what to look for in your dogs behaviour can help level up how you play
Body language is key
Ced is wiggly, brings the toy straight to me and knows tug is a guessing game - will he win the toy or not? So he's optimistic
Moose isn't necessarily tense, but when I call him, he gives me a wide berth and aims to go straight back to moving away from me
This tells me that if I reach for the toy to tug, he probably won't see it as just a fun game, but more me trying to take the thing he has
So, how do you change their mindset?
▪️More toys - have a couple of the same toy and make the one you have seem fun, they'll probably get fomo and come to you!
▪️be unpredictable - don't always reach for the toy just because they brought it to you, instead add in things like running away, offer them a food reward or just let them hang out around you with the toy
▪️Don't forget to let them win often! If the times they bring you the toy, you always ask for an out or take the toy from them, it may be what's putting them off bringing it back the next time
Next time your dog avoids bringing the toy back, try one of these out and let us know if it helps!
