SamanthaTopper Webboard User Reg: 03-24-2011
Posts: 779
Loc: Indianapolis
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I've been using a rolled up and knotted microfiber rag, and he loves that thing, but he's strong enough to start ripping it when he tugs back. Using tug as a reward has done wonders for him and his ability to control himself.
He's 6 months old, and really doesn't like a tug or toy he can't get a good teeth sunk grip on. Something that slips turns him off, so rolled suede or leather may not work, but honestly I don't know. I've never bought specific toys for tug, I've always just found something that works.
An example of the type of toy he prefers to grip is one of those Loofa Dogs. He doesn't care about the squeaker, but the shape and the material really seem to do it for him.
I have no experience with bite work so I really don't have a clue what the different materials are for.
Any suggestions? I'd really like two - one that's good for every day reward games, and a pocket sized toy that I can easily stuff into my purse or pants.
Tracy Collins Webboard User Reg: 10-09-2008
Posts: 1917
Loc: St. Louis, Missouri
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I've bought several actual "tugs," which my tuggers like...but their hands-down favorite is a homemade tug I make from old tube socks. One sock inside the other, then both ends tied in a knot. They don't last forever, but since they are made of trash, who cares?
Of the store-bought tugs, the jute one seems to be the easiest to grip. It's also the one that gets ratty the fastest.
SamanthaTopper Webboard User Reg: 03-24-2011
Posts: 779
Loc: Indianapolis
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I've heard of the jute, but have no experience with it. I don't much care how the toy looks as long as it isn't easy to rip. Tube socks are a no go. I gave him some old socks just like that to play with when he was younger and now he's obsessed with socks in general. I think he can tell the difference in material, since he only goes for the cotton and ignores the wool or synthetic dress socks!
What about a rope type tug? One of my dogs (the one who likes to play tug) loves playing tug with this rope thingy that I bought at a local pet store. It originally had a tennis ball on one end, but that's long gone. It's just plain cotton rope, doubled up and knotted in a couple places. You can buy them anywhere, in different lengths and diameters, with or without tennis balls attached. The rope is soft enough that my dog can sink his teeth into it and get a good grip. I've also tried one of those firehose type tugs with him and he's not nearly as interested in that.
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