Impulse control training hack trainers swear by

By Tug-E-Nuff play expert and dog trainer Chelsea Ann Lee

Impulse control  – a dog’s ability to pause, think and respond calmly rather than react instantly – is a cornerstone of good behaviour, which underpins everything from loose-lead walking to recall and even polite greetings.

One of the most effective – and often overlooked – ways to build this skill is through controlled chase games. The idea isn’t to stop dogs from chasing; it’s to teach them when to chase and when to stop. That’s where playing with a flirt pole is so powerful.

Turning play into training

The flirt poles tap into a dog’s natural prey drive – the instinct to chase moving objects – and channels it into a structured game with clear rules.

The method is simple: The dog is encouraged to chase the moving toy whilst the handler controls the movement. At key moments, the dog is asked to pause, wait or disengage. Play resumes as a reward for calm, controlled behaviour.

This cycle teaches dogs that self-control leads to more fun, reinforcing patience without removing the joy of play.

Why it works

There are three reasons this approach is so effective. Firstly, it works with natural instincts, not against them. Rather than suppressing behaviours like chasing, the game redirects them into a controlled environment.

It also creates clear consequences. Calm behavior makes the game continue. Impulsive behaviour pauses it. You’d be surprised how quickly dogs learn the difference.

Thirdly, it builds focus under excitement. Unlike static training drills, this method teaches dogs to listen even when highly stimulated, which is a key real-world skill.”

A solution for common behaviour challenges

Impulse control training using flirt pole games is particularly effective for:

• Over-excited dogs

• Dogs that jump up or struggle with greetings

• Poor recall during high distractions

• Lead pulling driven by excitement

• High-energy breeds needing mental stimulation.

Click here to watch a demonstration video that shows exactly how to implement the game safely and effectively.