June 28, 2013

My 3.5 month old pup and I have been playing tug but he wants to lay down as we play, is this a problem and if so what should I do?

Full Question:
Hi Cindy,

I have many of your videos including "playing tug." My 3 1/2 month pup and I are playing tug. This has went along pretty good at first, but now he wants to lay down as we play. To counter this I move the tug toward him and up as to not push the tug back into his mouth. The forward pressure gets him back on his feet, but when I start pulling away from him he will lay back down and try to hold onto the tug. Is this a problem at this stage and if so what should I do.

Thank you
Cindy
Cindy Cindy's Answer:
I might suggest either taking a break from tug play for now (he may be starting the teething process)or getting a second person and using the techniques shown in the puppy bite work video you have.  Have a second person hold him back on a harness and leash and you work the tug, when he bites they run him around in a very small circle and back to you.  Keep him moving.

It may be just a phase though, so it certainly wouldn't hurt to just take a break from tugging now until he's through the entire teething process (usually around 5.5-6 months of age).

I hope this helps.
Cindy Rhodes

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Expert Dog Trainer Cindy Rhodes
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