When most people think about positive reinforcement dog training, they think of using food as a reward. While treats are a great motivator for dog training, so are several other things - like games! Games like fetch and tug-of-war make great rewards for good behavior.
Let's take a look at how you can train your dog with games:
Before You Begin
Although it's possible to train your dog new commands during a game, it's generally better to use games to reinforce commands your dog already knows. Dogs should be introduced to new commands in areas with low noise and very little distraction. Since games of fetch or tug-of-war usually involve both of those things, it helps if you've already introduced the commands you want to work on before you start your game.
Make the Dog Work Before Play
Most dogs quickly learn that the sight of a ball or tug toy means the games are about to begin. Before you start playing, show your dog a toy, but keep it out of his reach. Give him a command such as "sit" or "down." As soon as he complies, let the games begin - throw the ball for him to fetch or toss him his end of the tug toy.
If your dog doesn't respond to your command, or takes too long to respond, walk away for a few minutes. Then, go back to your dog and give him the command again. Most dogs will quickly learn that the faster they respond to the command, the faster the fun starts.
Use the Game as a Learning Opportunity
Once you've started playing a game, you still have plenty of chances to reinforce your dog's training. You can practice the "drop it" command when your dog has the tug toy or ball in his mouth. If he drops the toy, quickly resume the game. If he doesn't drop the toy, turn your back to him and walk away from him for a minute. He'll soon learn that the game will only continue if he drops the toy.
You can reinforce other commands, as well. Any time your dog lets go of a toy, give him the command you want to practice before the game continues.
Stop Unwanted Behavior
Games also present a good opportunity to put a stop to unwanted behavior, such as jumping or mouthing. Do this by ending the game any time your dog exhibits bad behavior. For instance, if you're playing tug-of-war, and your dog nips your hand in an attempt to get a better hold on the toy, tell him "too bad" or "wrong" and end the game. The same goes for a dog who jumps up to snatch a toy away from you. End the game and put the toy away. Your dog will quickly learn that bad behavior puts an end to his playtime.
Troubleshooting
If the dog is consistently failing to respond to commands, he may not have a firm understanding of what you're asking him to do yet. Go back a step and work on the commands in an area with little or no distraction for several training sessions. Once your dog understands what you're asking of him, you can try to incorporate training into a game again.