Play is more then something we do, its ACTIVATION in your training!
Toys and play are powerful tools to boost engagement and “pay” your dog well for good behavior during training.
Why Play Matters in Training
Play taps into your dog’s natural instincts to chase, tug, and problem-solve, so training feels like a game instead of a chore.
Dogs that get regular, structured play often show better focus, emotional stability, and willingness to work with their handler.
Turning training into shared fun strengthens your bond and makes your dog more interested in staying connected to you around distractions.
Benefits of Using Toys as Rewards
Great for dogs that are not very food‑motivated or get full quickly; toys give them a different “currency” that still feels valuable.
Short bursts of tug or one toss of the ball can supercharge motivation and keep energy high during sessions.
Mixing toys, food, and praise lets you match the reward to the dog and the task instead of being stuck with only one option.
How to Use Toys and Play Well
Keep rewards in short bursts: 3–4 seconds of tug or a single throw, then back to work, so the dog stays hungry to earn the next play rep.
Use clear rules: ask for the behavior, mark it (yes/good), then immediately bring out the toy or start the game.
End the game while your dog still wants more so play stays exciting and doesn’t turn into random, disconnected chaos.
Building Skills Through Play
Tug and fetch are perfect chances to practice “sit,” “wait,” “come,” “drop it,” and “leave it” inside a fun routine.
Structured play (for example: sit → release → chase → bring back → drop) teaches impulse control and better listening in real‑life situations.
Interactive play with you (not just solo toy time) keeps your dog’s attention centered on their handler, which is exactly what you want for engagement work.
Are you interested in learning more details about Play in Training, or other helpful training techniques to build a better lifestyle with your dog? Join my online learning platform where you can get direct engagement with me through Q and A, Videos, Video feedback and much more!
