Is fetch over? New research reveals THIS is actually your dog’s favourite game to play

Fetch might be a game that rings down the centuries, but it appears it’s no longer a pooch’s favourite way to play. 

A new survey conducted by interactive dog toy company Tug-E-Nuff has crowned tug of war as the number one game between dogs and their owners. 

Eight in 10 owners declare tug of war is their dog’s favourite game, compared to six in 10 who say fetch gets their pooch most excited. 

Rounding out the top three games enjoyed by dogs and their owners is ‘find it’ games (54%). 

Chase games are also popular, with one third of dog owners declaring these their dog’s favourite way to play.

Beyond this, it appears dog owners are getting very creative when it comes to playing with their pooches, citing piggy in the middle, herding games and even an obstacle course of toys as ways they play with their pooches.

Almost half (46%) of dog owners also take part in dog sports or activities with their dogs - in particular, agility (19%), scentwork (18%), mantrailing (5%), hoopers (5%) and even surfing (1%). 

Danny Nelis-Rouse, Managing Director at Tug-E-Nuff, commented: “It’s great to hear that dog owners are keen to find more ways to have more fun with their dogs. 

“Interactive play in particular can bring real change, enrichment and positivity to dogs’ lives, and help overcome training and behaviour problems as well as improve the bond an owner has with their dog.”

Nine in 10 owners play regularly with their dogs, according to the poll, and say that play boosts their dog’s happiness (58%) and motivation (44%), and has a positive impact on the bond they share with their dog (43%). 

Dog owners who want to add more tail-wagging fun to their dog’s life can boost their knowledge by taking Tug-E-Nuff’s Power of Play online course, or three-minute Toy Quest Quiz to receive a personalised play plan for their pooch.