I've started playing tug with my 6mth old puppy. I say 'ready' (which I use for other toys before I throw),then 'ok' which let's her have it, then I put a treat near her nose or get one out for her to drop it. How do I move on to so I'm not using a lure? Also is it alright to use my release word from a stay, in this game - the word 'ok'.
The best way to move on from a lure is generally to fake it. So, hold your fingers as if you’re holding the treat, but empty. Then, when your dog drops, show him your fingers are empty, and give him a treat from your pouch. Once he’s doing this reliably, you can introduce a verbal cue before the “fake lure” and eventually fade the fingers.
I would use a different word to your release word. That should mean “you can break position” whereas this means something very particular- release what’s in your mouth. I use two cues depending on context; “drop” means open your mouth and let go (so it drops on the floor or they let go if we’re tugging) and ”dead” means to ensure it is placed firmly in my hand.
I was using 'ok' to let her know she can grab the toy...still think o should use another word like 'start'?
Oh, I see. Personally, I’d still use something different, because you’re actually after a particular behaviour, even if it’s the one she’s most likely to perform when released. I use “get it!”.
