For many dog owners, it's clear: toys are primarily for fetching. Throw a ball, the dog runs, brings it back – done.
But this view is far too narrow.
Because toys can achieve much more in training than just pure exercise or activity. Used correctly, they become a versatile tool that can strengthen both motivation and the relationship between human and dog.
Dog trainer Ellen Marques, owner of the Martin Rütter Dog School Cologne and known from TV shows like "Der Hundeprofi" and "Die Unvermittelbaren," uses toys specifically in a wide variety of training situations.
Toys as a Reward in Training
One of the most obvious and at the same time most effective uses is the use of toys as a reward.
Many dogs are particularly motivated when they know that a short play session awaits them at the end.
"Toys offer many possibilities as a reward in training," explains Ellen Marques.
Especially for dogs who are less food-motivated or quickly lose interest in treats, toys can be a real alternative.
This creates a clear advantage:
The reward becomes more active and emotional, which often makes training more dynamic.
Strengthening the Relationship through Joint Play
An often underestimated aspect is the effect of toys on the relationship between human and dog.
Joint play is more than just activity – it is communication.
Specifically used games:
- promote attention
- strengthen the bond
- create shared successes
"Toys can be wonderfully used for relationship games," says Ellen Marques.
It is important that the game is not uncontrolled, but deliberately designed.
Controlled Games Instead of Constant Action
A central point in training is control over the game.
Toys should not simply be for wild romping, but used purposefully.
Controlled games mean:
- the human starts the game
- the human ends the game
- intensity and duration are consciously controlled
This not only provides more structure but also helps the dog distinguish between activity and rest.
Search Games and Brain Teasers
Toys are excellently suited for cognitive stimulation.
Instead of just being physically active, the dog can also be mentally challenged:
- searching for toys
- distinguishing objects
- solving small tasks
This form of activity is often more sustainable than pure exercise, as it challenges the dog on a different level.
"Toys are also ideal for search games and brain teasers," explains Ellen Marques.
Toys for Calm Regulation
A particularly exciting – and for many surprising – area of application is calm regulation.
Because toys don't always have to be associated with action.
Certain forms of use, such as:
- chewing
- licking
- calm engagement
can help the dog reduce stress and regulate itself.
Ellen Marques speaks here of "over-chewing and over-licking" – behaviors that can have a calming effect on the nervous system.
Especially after exciting situations, toys can be used specifically to bring the dog back to a balanced state.
Conclusion: A True Multitalent in Training
In dog training, toys are much more than just a means to an end.
Used correctly, they can:
- increase motivation
- strengthen the bond
- provide structure
- offer mental stimulation
- and even contribute to relaxation
Or as Ellen Marques summarizes it:
Toys open up "super many possibilities" in training – far beyond traditional fetching.
For dog owners, this means:
It is worthwhile to broaden your perspective on toys and consciously integrate them into your daily training routine.
Because often the greatest added value lies not in the object itself, but in the way we use it together with our dog.
