Why Dogs Like Squeaky Toys
As a pet parent, you are more than acquainted with the familiar *squeak*squeak* you hear when your canine companion is playing with their favorite squeaky toy. And there are probably more than a few times that this noise has also annoyed you. So, why does your canine love it so much? Let’s find out!
It’s Your Dog’s Natural Instincts
Since our canine companions are descendants of wolves, they share a variety of instinctual characteristics with them. One of those instincts being the drive to attack when they see or hear something that resembles prey. Your furry friend’s squeaky toys coincidentally make a noise that’s very similar to that of prey when injured or frightened. So, when you’re holding Fido’s toy up and squeeze it a few times to make it squeak, their hunting instincts kick into overdrive. When your pooch is done playing and stops the toy from making noise, they practically see this as them successfully conquering their prey.
Your Pup Receives Instant Gratification
Another possible reason your four-legged friend loves their squeaky toys is that it gives them an instant sense of gratification. Receiving continual auditory feedback from their toy tells your pup that their bite was strong, significant, and effective. For Fido, when their toy produces that repetitive squeak, they see it as applause similar to when you verbally reward them.
The Benefits Squeaky Toys Can Have on Fido
Similarly to their pet parents, dogs receive numerous health benefits (both mentally and physically) by partaking in activities that bring them joy. Play with any toy, not just a squeaky one, can help raise your canine’s heart rate and get in some exercise. Additionally, when your pup’s natural instincts are evoked in a healthy way (which we previously explained that squeaky toys can do just that), it can help bring them mental stimulation as well. Plus, when your dog has an outlet for their energy and chewing, it can help reduce the possibility of them acting out or exhibiting destructive behavior. Also, as a pet parent, a squeaky toy is a great way to grab your pooch’s attention when needed.
Always keep an eye on your canine’s squeaky toys to ensure there isn’t any ripping or damage, and if you do notice any, always replace them. The squeaker inside the toy can sometimes pose as a choking hazard to your pooch, so that’s why checking their toys often is so essential.