Tug of war and chase the laser light are two games that should not be played with dogs.

Tug of war is a contentious topic amongst dog trainers. Some argue that it is okay to play as long as the dog plays by the rules; others oppose it because it triggers high arousal aggression and emotional reactivity. I belong to the latter group.

Tug, roughhouse or wrestling games are peer games. Same status dogs and puppies within a litter play it. If initiated by the owner, it muddles the leadership lines and leaves the dog confused about the relationship.

In addition, dogs love high arousal games. If they are taught that it is an acceptable way to interact with humans, they will initiate it with all humans, including children, and things get out of control quickly when screams and flailing arms charge the dog up even more.


High arousal peer games, such as tug of war, charges the dog up too much with nowhere to go when you stop the game. He’ll scan the environment and initiate it with anybody, attempts to keep the game going, because mouth and ritualized biting games are very natural for dogs, played with siblings and equally ranking dogs, and a lot of fun. By interacting with your dog that way, he learns that it is appropriate to play dog games with humans. Don’t teach what you don’t want.

Having said all that, once a relationship is established, the dog is trained, is respectful of space, has learned self-control and can relax on command, tug can be incorporated as a super reward for outstanding performances; can be one of the resources the dog wants and has to work for.


Professional opinions are split regarding tug of war and other roughhousing games, but unanimous when it comes to the laser light chase. Used as means to either tease the dog, or in an attempt to tire her out, the human controls a laser flashlight from the armchair, with the dog chasing it. Not only is it mindless, but also charges the dog up, again with nowhere to go. There is no purposeful end, no outcome for the dog. Because of senseless chasing, and because it is still fun for the dog, there is a strong propensity that chasing lights quickly turns into a compulsive disorder. The dog chases everything – shadows, TV flashes, sun rays shining through curtains. He is permanently tense, on high alert and stressed. Once a behavior has developed into a compulsive disorder, it is difficult to change.

Tug of war and laser lights are counter productive to good behavior games, but there are many good and structured games you can play with your dog.