Why Do Dogs Love Soft Toys?

Many dogs seem to be obsessed with stuffed toys, and almost every dog owner knows what his dog's favorite toy is for chewing, snuggling, or sleeping. What makes stuffed toys so appealing to our canine companions? Does a preference for a particular dog toy or your dog's behavior towards it reflect something about your dog? Whatever behavior your dog exhibits - there's no denying that dogs really love stuffed toys.

The Roots of the Behavior

While it's safe to say that almost all dogs are crazy about stuffed toys, some are genetically wired to love them more than others. They generally love to carry their soft stuffed toys around with them and won't destroy them, so the main thing to watch out for is making sure to wash the toys from time to time to avoid a buildup of dirt and bacteria. Some dogs love stuffed animal toys because they're easy to shred - if they can be ripped apart, that's a lot of fun. If the stuffed toy has a squeaky mechanism inside, that's even better. Given the above, it's both normal and common for dogs to enjoy playing with stuffed toys. While this behavior is usually harmless, there are some situations you should be wary of. If your dog seems obsessed with a toy and sucks on it compulsively, this could be a sign of anxiety or premature weaning. You have to pay close attention to the situations in which your dog is most motivated to grab the toy - does it do so when surrounded by other dogs or loud noises that might stress it out? Maybe the only time you see it sucking on a stuffed toy is when you're home. This could be a sign of separation anxiety.

Encourage the Behavior

If sucking on a stuffed toy calms your dog and it doesn't get out of control, you can let him indulge in this behavior occasionally - but don't encourage it. If you allow it, you have to make sure the stuffed toy is dog-safe, meaning the material won't cause any gum irritation and that there aren't any small parts that your dog could accidentally choke on. It's best to buy toys that are designed for dogs and have a specific purpose based on your dog's needs and preferences. If your dog does develop a compulsion or obsession with a stuffed toy, try replacing it with something else and distracting it. If it won't let go and "needs" its toy, it's highly recommended that it be seen by a dog trainer or veterinarian, who may be able to prescribe a spray if necessary based on an evaluation. Especially if your dog shows any signs of aggression, there is no doubt to see a trainer - otherwise it could become a more serious problem.

Other Solutions and Considerations

While it is normal and generally safe for your dog to enjoy stuffed toys, it is always best to be cautious and observant, especially when it comes to newly formed habits or behaviors. Most dogs really enjoy playing with stuffed toys, and as long as they do not show compulsion or aggression, it is harmless, and the stuffed toy is specifically designed for dogs. Unless your dog tries to chew it, it should not be a choking hazard.

Conclusion

Stuffed animal toys are popular among all dogs, so it is completely normal for your dog to occasionally chew on his favorite thing or carry it around, especially if it is a Labrador or other type of retriever. How they express their admiration determines whether it is safe and healthy.