The variety of dog toys, from bouncing, flying, tugging, and especially squeaky ones, shows just how much dogs love to play. But what makes squeaky toys so irresistible? While we can't ask dogs directly, their wagging tails and eager pounces suggest that squeaky toys trigger something special. To understand why dogs like squeaky toys, we need to explore why dogs play in the first place and what types of play they thrive on. Let’s take a closer look into what makes these toys such a hit with our furry pals!
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Why Dogs Like Squeaky Toys
While not every dog loves squeaky toys, most seem irresistibly drawn to them. But why do dogs like squeaky toys so much? Is it because it mimics the sound of prey when caught, tapping into their wild instincts? Or are they simply having fun? Or are we reinforcing this behavior by giving them attention when they squeak the toy? Here are three theories that might explain the appeal of squeaky toys.
Prey-Drive Theory
Wolves, the ancestors of dogs, were hunters, and domestic dogs retain some of that prey drive. A 2017 study by Mehrkam et al. found that dogs with stronger prey instincts, like retrievers and herders, were more likely to engage with toys. Although no study has directly connected squeaky sounds to prey drive, research suggests dogs are drawn to toys that make noise or are easy to chew (Pullen et al., 2010).
Meanwhile, in a Reddit discussion with the topic of why dogs like squeaky toys, many mentioned that it is likely because the toys trigger their hunting instinct or the satisfaction of the chase, even if some mentioned that their pets didn’t have a prey drive (which makes sense because dogs have been domesticated).
Human Reinforcement Theory
Dogs quickly learn that squeaky toys get our attention, and we often reinforce this behavior by engaging with them when they play. Mehrkam's study also noted that play was more frequent when humans interacted with the dog or moved the toy. This creates a feedback loop: we squeeze the toy, they respond, and we keep playing.
“Just Plain Fun” Theory
Sometimes, the simplest explanation is the best: dogs just enjoy the sound! Biting down on a squeaky dog toy triggers a fun, rewarding noise, which releases “happy” hormones like serotonin and dopamine. This self-reinforcing play is as fun for dogs as it is for us!
If you want to better understand why your dog likes squeaky toys, a Petcube Cam comes in handy. With the device, you can monitor your pet 24/7, making sure that you won’t miss a thing. Its features include a 1080p full HD video, 110° wide-angle view, 8x digital zoom, a clear night vision, among others.
How to Play With Squeaky Toys
Playing with your dog using a dog squeaky toy can be more intuitive than you think, but there are a few tips to make playtime even more engaging.
Get Your Dog Interested
Instead of just shaking a toy in front of your dog, try moving it slowly along the floor, just out of reach. This mimics the movement of prey, stimulating your dog's natural instincts.
Play Games
Squeaky dog toys are great for fetch, and durable ones can work for tug-of-war too. Want to level up? Teach your dog the names of toys and hide them around the house for a fun “hunt.”
Safety Tips
Always supervise your dog with new toys, especially squeaky toys, to avoid choking hazards or swallowed parts that can cause gastrointestinal obstruction. Regularly check for rips or tears—damaged toys should be thrown out. Plush toys with holes can be sewn up, but if a toy’s plastic or rubber is compromised, it’s best to toss it. Hard plastic toys can develop sharp edges after chewing. When in doubt about a toy’s safety, consult your vet.
Play safe and make every moment fun and rewarding for both you and your dog!
Conclusion
The appeal of squeaky toys to dogs likely stems from a mix of instinct, fun, and human reinforcement. Whether it's tapping into their prey drive, enjoying the sound, or simply having a blast during playtime, these toys provide dogs with excitement and stimulation. By understanding their motivations, we can make playtime even more engaging and rewarding, strengthening the bond between us and our furry companions while ensuring safety and fun.