How to teach your dog impulse control (with games)

We get a lot of requests for tips on charging up a dog’s impulse control, and we’re delighted to say that YES - play is a great way to do it! 

Whether your dog runs off chasing after other dogs, other people’s balls, or scents that are simply too irresistible to ignore, using play to work on your dog’s self control is fun AND effective.

How to do it using fetch

Ask your dog to stay and wait for a release cue before they run off to retrieve their ball or tuggy - and you’ll be getting plenty of self control training in while you play.

While we often think of treats as a reward - being released to run and retrieve your dog’s favourite toy can be waaaay more rewarding. 

Just take a look at Willow here having a whale of a time showing off her willpower before fetching her pocket powerball magnet tuggy.

How to do it using chase

This impulse control game has the added benefit of improving your dog's recall while turning up their self control. Grab 2 tuggies and a team mate to help you train.

Have your helper encourage your dog towards them with tuggy #1, then call your dog back to you by being super exciting with tuggy #2. Reward your dog with a mammoth game of tug of war when they come racing back to you. 

How to do it using tug

Engage your dog in a game of tug, then stop moving the toy and ask your dog to ‘drop’. When your dog releases the toy, mark and reward by re-engaging in the game.

If your dog struggles to let go of the tuggy (and who can blame them?!), you can try switching for another toy or switching for a treat.

The important thing is, the game restarts once your dog exercises self control and stops on cue!

How to do it using cues

Teaching your dog to wait until they're verbally given permission to do something is a brilliant way to build up engagement with you whilst working on their impulse control. 

Teach your dog to wait for your cue using play, and you'll be one step closer to improving your dog's patience and self discipline! Start in a distraction free environment to set your dog up for success - before taking your training to more distracting environments. 

Teaching your dog anything new is way more fun to do if you use The Power of Play... Plus, did you know that play helps dogs learn new skills faster? 

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