Not all dog play is the same.

A dog tug toy is designed for interaction begtween the owner/handler and the dog.  It is not a chew toy that should be given to the dog to amuse themselves, as they are not designed to be chewed on.  They are designed to be bitten into and held, allowing for a tugging interaction between the human and the dog.  This form of play is very satisfying, as dogs enjoy conflict between themselves and the ones they feel close with.  This is how puppies play, in order to develop the skills that will take them into adulthood.  As dogs age, the satisfaction of biting, shaking and tugging against another dog or human triggers an enjoyment that is both exciting as well as satisfying.

Playing tug with your dog does not create aggression, or compromise the relationship between the handler and the dog.  It does not create a situation where the dog does not respect your authority, and it does not foster feelings of fear if they are not "allowed to win." It is a simple interaction between yourself and your dog in a way that the dog enjoys, instead of it being the simple "transactional" play the dog usually gets.  Transactional play is where the human throws something and the dog then completes the transaction by bringing it back. While there is nothing wrong with this type of play, it is not the same as interactive play, where there is a constant give and take between yourself and the dog, instead of simply retreiving.

The amouont of the satisfaction the dog receives from tug play is going to depend on you and the tug itself.

French Linen

Softer and easier of the dog's mouth when they are biting and tugging.  Most dogs prefer the softer material when playing.

Firehose

More durable and waterproof, but less satisfying for the dog because they cannot achieve a deep bite.

Our choice

After testing many variations of tugs, we chose French Linen to use in our vans because the dogs prefer it.  It is easier on the humans and the dog, creating a more satisfying play session.