If the dog is shy and not aggressive, tug may be one of many things that you can do to build confidence and self-esteem. Allowing your shy dog chances to win the game may be a helpful element in a behavior therapy program. More important is teaching your dog numerous commands and even tricks. Exercise and socialization are absolutely crucial aspects of an effective program.
Tug is also a fun occasional game for you and your calm, well-behaved canine companion. It offers a chance to do something different and diversifies the experiences roster of you and your friend. This is bond-building. Of course, there are many other things in addition to tug that may be great play games including, fetch, hide and seek, easy wrestling etc.
You are probably your dog's best friend just as he or she is yours, and doing many things together will build a huge bond that results in obedience, cooperation, communication and trust.
On the other hand, playing tug of war with your dog that is already "protective" or fear aggressive, will likely result in more unwanted behavior. If you are not sure, tug may be a game to put off until many other games, commands and training have been accomplished.
