How To Teach Your Dog To Drop A Tug Or Toy On Command

When you know why a dog likes to tug or bite on toys, it's easy to teach them to drop on command. Here are a few simple tips to teach your dog to LET GO while tugging, and eventually drop the tug or toy on command.
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[@ashleylong-k4f]

Well holy shit. I wish I would have found this video sooner. I had no idea how effective this method was until I literally just tried it with my 7 month old GSD. She immediately let go when I have been trying unsuccessfully up until now to get her to release. Thank you so much!

[@t.l.c.893]

Yes, the same for me and my 6 month old Lab!!! That was amazing.

[@dianehuey1]

Amazing to see how quickly he shifted ! Always helpful to know what’s behind the behavior- thanks!

[@KariEngblom-Youkey]

Thanks for this video! Made a huge difference for me and my 9 month old equal mix of herder-guarder-nordic ( we call her our Nordic herding maligator.....your videos have been so helpful and we are all really enjoying the process ❤! )

[@deanbalouris330]

You should explain the benefits of playing tug with your dog.

[@susantague6519]

Question: What if they don't let it go? I have a dog that is very prey driven and reactive toward the cats. So I bought him a teaser toy which was like a stick, rope and stuffed toy that squicks. He is as obsessed with the toy as he is with the cats. I will try your method and perhaps change to the tug you had. Thank you.

[@mcmew3427]

My Dutch Shepherd puppy LOVES to grab onto other dogs ears and PULL PULL PULL without letting go...and I suspect it's because he thinks it's tug-of-war, which my husband plays with him all the time! I think this will be useful to help remedy that...if tug-of-war IS the reason he does this, I think this method will work. Note: my dog means zero malice when he clamps on a dog's ear...he doesn't know his own strength yet. And he's never seriously hurt any dogs yet, so I'm addressing this before it happens.

[@sophievanderauwera691]

Well, I've tried it a few times but it didn't work, my tug toy was still too good to continue shaking, even if it didn't move that much. I'll stick to swapping toys instead.

[@katherinevictoria2406]

when teaching "leave it" for the first time, is it wrong to exchange the tug for a treat and mark it when the dog releases it with the treat?

[@methodk9]

Not wrong. Just might not be as effective in the long run.

[@dianalynn3600]

Learning a lot even though Marci is a little weird. LOl

[@rickbostick-K9training]

As a male, I recommend holding the tug toy off to the side over your thigh instead of right in the middle near the jewels lol. This come from experience, had a dog readjust their teeth and catch me right in junk at the same time NOT fun!!!! I always go over the thigh now. LMAO Live and learn!! Great technique though, been doing this for years! =)

[@bryanherrera604]

😂😂😂 I was wondering how we man should do it , it sure doesn’t look safe for us

[@ranjangurung4442]

Been here. Not a good experience.. had to do a self check in a middle of a busy park 😅🤣

[@annakcupidustalebordercoll3503]

Hi, i just came across your channel. Really good content across all i have seen so far. Many trainers focus on showing how they can handle the dog and instantly change their behaviour without much focus on the other end of the leash, whereas i feel like you are actually teaching people all the "whys". This is so important!

[@Palmonte631]

But what if you do this and he still wont let go. I’ve literally sat and held my rope toy completely still for like 2 min straight and my 130lb Shiloh shepherd just stands there or will pull it and me along with it.

[@victorolvera6482]

do training techniques interfere with each other? I just saw different video where a guy used two balls. He thru one ball, got the dog to fetch it, when the dog brought it back the trainer got him to "drop-it" using the other ball. And that's how he tough the dog the "drop-it" command. I would like to use both techniques but will that confuse the dog? Should I teach separate commands per technique?

[@merylelehn9671]

How does this relate to hunt retreivers ie labs. Traditional training discouages tug games. Throw a bumper...dog retrrives...releases to hand. Get another toss/ retreive as the reward. Often on retreives of live birds they need to retreive soft mouthed and gentley release the flapping live bird to hand. They are discourged to hold to kill or brar down. Method K9 please explain benifit of teaching the tug release for an agressive lab. Love all your other strategies.

[@raymondchow2237]

Love your video but more important the little details

[@learning2no]

How do you end the season without the dog expecting to think he will get the toy back?

[@kandrisa]

I believe that you just saved my 8 month puppy from possibly initiating a dog fight. He’s been biting other dogs’ leashes and sometime collars. I see how this method will absolutely change his perspective and cognition on drop and me as his handler.

[@amberhernandez4327]

My pitbull is way stronger than me and shakes her head so I am unable to successfully “kill” the animal properly. Any suggestions?

[@dammarito]

WOW!!! This worked Perfectly!! Thank you so much! I’ve been working on “drop” with my dog with only a little success. This worked INSTANTLY!

[@methodk9]

Excellent

[@Mets2015WorldSeries]

@@warondogs8199it’s a hunter bro

[@dianehuey1]

Amazing to see how quickly he shifted ! Always helpful to know what’s behind the behavior- thanks!

[@ExoticForeign]

Subscribed! I pray this works on my dog I will try tug of war later, I had to find a solution because my dog doesn’t let go

[@UdayS-u7y]

i wish i would have known about your training methods..i trained leo for leash pulling and started playing tug more disciplined way..thanks

[@mittab3895]

What if they do not let it go? It did not work for my dog , the dog still keeps holding firmly until I become tired and release it. He growls at the same time

[@vbs4257]

I was just now teaching "Drop it" to one of my students!

[@Suren1602]

Boys don't kill the animal at the same place where our trainer is killing and re engaging... Re engaging by a learner is too dangerous

[@garrettwinpilotin2007]

Were can I buy that Large Tug Toy online?

[@rachelunderbakke39]

I tried this with my little pit mix using a large rope toy and when i pulled the toy close to me and held it still, it seemed to make her bite down harder on it and she just hard stared at me. I tried to keep it still for a while assuming she would let go but she continued staring and trying to pull the toy away. Thoughts?

[@methodk9]

There is likely still a little wiggle in the toy. Try to keep it as still as possible. Another thing to try is bumping the dog with your knee to interrupt them so they let go.

[@evitop4330]

My pit bull does the same and I hold it perfectly still. He just closes his eyes and waits for hours lol.

[@karin2825]

Awesome video, thank you! Where can I get the tug toy you have?

[@STAYWOKEBGF]

Where did you get that tug you. Can't find a strong one like that..

[@barbarafruitbat1245]

Brilliant advice! Thank you.

[@iga279]

I thought malinois were a bit smarter than that and they could distinguish between an animal and tug toy.

[@neycrogav99]

Thanks for the video! Our Plott Hound almost pulls harder and gets a little crazy when I pull the rope close and "kill" the animal (holding the rope still). Any suggestions? Thanks

[@fireblazinstar]

That wont work with mine she keeps re-adjusting her bite on the toy I'd probably get accidently nibbed. So what do you do in that type case?

[@MarkDuivesteijn]

Great question, I have the same issue

[@fireblazinstar]

@@MarkDuivesteijn still not much worked with mine except bribing with a treat

[@MarkDuivesteijn]

@@fireblazinstar so recognizable. He even knows the sounds of the bags/pockets that contain candy. The moment he hears it, it's candy only the rest doesn't matter. At least that 😆

[@fireblazinstar]

@@MarkDuivesteijn same here..lol

[@AjziaNycole]

I try this and my American Bulldog just continues to tug on it 😭😭 I’m trying to teach “drop it” but he doesn’t seem to get it

[@apbt067]

That dog has been trained. But a dog that isn’t trained to just stop pulling and thrashing it’s a lot harder. A dog like a rott or mastiff will shake that toy regardless. Even if it’s a just a little bit. Would have to be a solid person to hold a tug still with a 120lb dog on the other end.

[@kristinbaker9994]

That is exactly why you train respect before they get that big.

[@maryanndelossantos2791]

This video will help me more to dog

[@dianehuey1]

Where can I get a tug like that???

[@jessen62]

Amazing ! What about the command to take the tug ? I.e. got get it, or get it, I see you said “yes” is that the command?

[@kristinbaker9994]

"Yes" is the reward marker. This marks that the dog has done the right thing, and the toy follows immediately as the reward for doing the right thing. You don't need to teach them to take the reward. They already want it and the marker lets them know they are allowed to have it. Just like saying "yes" and giving a treat. You don't give a command for them to take the treat after they've done something appropriate, right? Hope this heps.

[@ironjay09]

Love the videos! This one particularly is perfect for Chulo, I've been trying to get him to let go with minimal success. I cant wait to try this approach!

[@mmareviewer.2372]

we are simulating the kill

[@pici24]

Good content, thank you !

[@tricias6329]

Where do I get this tug

[@rebeccasuraci7666]

Haha always the underwear

[@bioman2007]

Worked like a charm (on the first try) with my 7-month-old Rottweiler. Need to work more with my one-year-old Pitbull. BTW, THANK GOD I read the comment below (the one about using our thigh to protect our "jewels") . My future kids will thank you.

[@hiro_the_gsdm918]

When I want to play tug with my dog, he always nips my hands where I’m holding the toy, any tips?

[@hiro_the_gsdm918]

@@GurgMaster okay thanks! 😊 He used to bite at my hands to get me to drop it and it’s made him a bit aggressive so we’ve had it to stop tug all together (which stopped his biting), and have started to do fetch instead (with two balls) which had taught him to drop the ball in his mouth, when I’m about to throw a ball (usually when I lift the ball to my shoulder level). And now it works with one ball or with anything, all I need to do is lift my hand to my shoulder as if I’m going to throw a ball.

[@Vent-Humor]

Thank you 🎉❤

[@sheilathompson8986]

Love your videos

[@SuperPiratesTV]

Amazing!

[@bfs1078]

Thank you for your videos! Do you have one on how to keep your dog from barking at other dogs during our walks?

[@zsahe21]

!!!!!!

[@anastassiagresko4571]

Hi

[@spire4101]

Fist video that actually worked for this. Thanks for the knowledge. It all makes sense now.

[@mikem.2900]

Balabanov method? I dig it 👍👍 I gotta get me a tug toy like that one !

[@veenavarro6732]

What length of tug is that? Thank you for all your videos. Super helpful!

[@methodk9]

Not sure! Maybe 3ft handle to handle.

[@garrettwinpilotin2007]

@@methodk9 were can i buy it online the, tug toy were can I buy

[@kacperpawowski8985]

if I give my dog ​​a toy like this, it won't bite the toy handles?

[@methodk9]

It might. You will need to keep showing the dog to bite the center. If they won't, get a softer tug toy.

[@kacperpawowski8985]

@@methodk9 thank you

[@carolcrosby2177]

This is a great technique for a dog that intuits that letting go when the tug is stationary means the prey is dead. My young female decided that a stationary tug meant try harder and harder. AKA the opposite of this. She could literally pull me out of a chair. Big win for her of course and not learning to out this way. However, when I would intentionally let go( started from my exhaustion trying to be still) she would bring and slam it back into me. She was wanting me to start playing again. This, of course, is super engagement for play. Eventually I was able to add the out command with a quick yes for a regrip. Just wanted to share this for those who find their dogs might outlast them trying to be stationary. You'll need a line on those dogs that want to run away with the tug and that's another ballgame.

[@skycenat]

Amazing tutorial! But what’s that toy?

[@methodk9]

Redline K9 tug

[@skycenat]

@@methodk9 thank you so much!

[@jordanrey1414]

Hi I have a 11 week old malamous but he keeps ripping tug toys. Can you give me a link for tugs toys. Thanks for the video though

[@peggycole9113]

I LOVE this..Will start this immediately! Ty vm

[@stickydoughcakes]

whats a good site to find a long tug pillow like in video

[@louisefrance9967]

Love all your videos and my puppy Doberman gets it pretty much on the first go. Will try the "drop" command next. Thanks

[@jameslucas5171]

I have a 2 year old Amstaff mix. Very quick and athletic. She takes other dog's balls and will not give it up so I can return to owner. As you know and Amstaff is in the same breed family as a pit bull and she has that strong determination to not back off from taking a ball as though her life depends on it. I often tell people she would not drop the ball, even if you used a baseball bat. They are always the attractive rubber balls you purchase, like "chuck it." She especially is crazy about balls that squeak. The harder I try to get the ball from her, the more determined she is to not drop it. She is too strong to take it from her mouth. She literally goes crazy as though it is prey. I have tried many things like using an e-collar with sensitivity at full strength. This just makes her more determined to not give it up. She is not distracted by anything. Offering her treats or another ball is fruitless. The only thing that works sometimes is by attaching a leash to her harness and pull her away from the ball if she sets it down for a second. It is at the point that I can't take her to the dog beach or a park with other dogs playing fetch. If I do, I must keep my distance from other dogs playing fetch. Do you have any recommendations?

[@anjahorvat9537]

This really worked! I'm a small girl with german shepard so I have to say it was challenging to stabilize the toy to make it uninteresting. It took about a minute for him to let go the first time! Thanks!

[@Pampnaylor]

What a great video. My obedient wonderful Australian Shepard cannot stop playing tug and I worry I’m going to get accidentally bitten or somebody else is. so I’m going to work on this with Max… my big old beautiful Australian Shepherd and I will get back to you!

[@luckychucky3426]

Wow I really like your presentation great job

[@nenitacababayao4944]

Been trying different techniques to get my dog let go of tug but without success. This worked perfectly with my Belgian with one try! Perfect! Thanks! Do you have any advice on how to stop my Belgian puppy from play biting. Thanks!

[@tinanieves9881]

My dog gets WOLD with the tug! I can't move my hands to get closer or she pulls it out of my hands. HELP!

[@dianalynn3600]

that so doesnt work w Marci. Dead animal means she is victorious and she goes even harder. Lol

[@eddievazquez1907]

This worked in 1 session. Green handler with a new dog. Everything is coming along besides the “Out” which is a work in progress. Thank you 🙏

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

My rescue dog came with a "tennis ball hoarding" need. Initially she growled and fought over giving up her ball. I then used a Kong hard red ball to (as a replacement) to get her to give up ANY toy to me. I also used the "trade me" (liver treat for the ball) and that worked also. WHERE CAN WE BUY THIS KIND OF TUG? (I looked at Chery and Petco, and both were a no go.) I definitely want to work with this tug with my 70 lb. Lab/Staffordshire Terrier.

[@methodk9]

Redline k9 makes the tug

[@sheilaren123]

Thank you for sharing.

[@InGreed666]

What if you're done for now? My dog never calms down after he had a toy

[@fishinny8320]

Literally worked as i was watching the video! Been working on this for months too haha

[@staciamj1]

Best explanation. Thanks

[@konukuauleki]

nice crates!!! what brand are those?

[@methodk9]

Impact

[@66tammie]

Outstanding video, great information!

[@amylegler7925]

I believe my dog is part Malinois! But I'm new and love your videos! Can't wait to start working with him. Also where did you get that guy toy?

[@TheBoilingPoint]

Lots of love from the Philippines

[@mandeepkumar2016]

Marvelous Marvelous ❤❤❤

[@konstantinakafesaki6857]

Such a good video !! Very educational !! Nice work!!

[@dannygamez7764]

I think that Clark can spell.

[@ghostblackzero]

This is the best explanation and tutorial I’ve seen for tug. I tried it out and my dog let go of the toy when I “killed” it the very first time. Thank you!

[@kimnute2146]

I would love to see a video with you training a 1yo Pitbull using this technique. So far he won't let go of anything and every time I hold it close like you I get bit and clothes torn LOL Not his fault...I must be doing something wrong.

[@methodk9]

We have one on our subscription page. Methodk9institute.com

[@kimnute2146]

@@methodk9 thank you so much!

[@MattPayne1]

Need to give this a try.

[@berfont1994]

What if my dog isn't interested to tug?

[@DJTINYM]

Thank you so much for this info no one has said it like this before makes it easy to understand now I get it thank you!

[@LMS2019]

Thank you! I'm going to try that with my dog ASAP :D

[@matthewguzman6806]

Work out biceps

[@Jsplain]

What toy is that?

[@ericanderson7882]

Outstanding! Thank you!

[@Rem694u2]

This is really interesting.

[@thegrandmuftiofwakanda]

Well I never.

[@davefleury2984]

What age is a good time to start training this?

[@katehuffman2252]

His little nose boops in between killing the animal & making it alive again killed me 🤣

[@rickm6913]

Where do you find a tug toy like the one you used?

[@methodk9]

Redline K9

[@jankuna9479]

Wow! Merci!

[@buddyboy744]

great vid .and works a treat with my bud...

[@mandogfish7418]

Excellent tutorial.

[@saphira3]

Your dog us beautiful 😍

[@superman0579]

Nice work! Thank you for doing these videos