Do you ever ask yourself what makes your dog run around like crazy over a squeaky toy? It is a question that every pet owner has probably asked at least once, and the answer is in genetics, behavior analysis, and, of course, play and fun.
Every dog, no matter the breed, is attracted to these noisy toys to some extent. Knowing why will assist you in understanding more about what drives your fury child and also getting them the right toy.
In this article, you will learn why do dogs like squeaky toys, what advantages they have, and how to play with them correctly. We'll also say a few words on how to chose the right dog toy for you pup.
Why Do Dogs Love the Sound of Squeaky Toys?
There are several reasons as to why dogs enjoy squeaky toys and all of them are related to their basic instincts and desires. Let's break it down:
1. Hunting Instinct
The hunting instinct is one of the main reasons why the dogs like squeaky toys so much. Domestic dogs have their origin from wild dogs that used to hunt for their meals.
The sound of a squeaky toy imitates the sounds that prey like small rodents or birds make before they are caught. This stimulates the prey drive in the dog, and the dog will want to pursue, capture, and “kill” the toy.
A certified professional dog trainer, Max Randall, has this say: “Squeaker toys are attractive to dogs in so far as they instantiate visual and auditory features that imitate prey.”
2. Instant Gratification
Squeaky toys give an instant feedback which is very fulfilling for the dog. If a dog takes a toy and bites on it, the toy squeaks, and this gives the dog a feeling of having done something right. This makes them continue playing and biting the toy because they get an immediate reward.
Don't forget to check our Nandog's squeaker tennis ball sets. Each set contain 5 squeak balls your pup will love!
3. Engaging and Fun
To many dogs squeaky toys are just toys! The unpredictable noise and the effort required to get the toy to squeak is what keeps the dogs engaged and busy. This stimulation is not only fun but also makes the mind work, thus avoiding the worst scenario of boredom.
Another great favorite of dogs are tennis balls! Read also why dogs love tennis balls so much!
The Advantages of Giving Squeaky Toys To Your Pup
But besides the fun, squeaky toys come with several advantages to your furry child physical and mental wellbeing.
1. Physical Exercise
Squeaky toys help in creating opportunities for activity which is an important component in avoiding obesity and other related ailments. Whether your dog is running after a squeaky ball or pulling on a squeaky plush toy, they are exercising.
Dog balls are great for physical exercise. Make sure to check Nandog's collection of tennis balls for dogs!
2. Mental Stimulation
Squeaky toys are fun because they make your dog think and try to find out how to make the toy squeak. This facet of problem solving can enhance the cognitive skills of your dog and help his or her brain to stay active.
Nandog's My BFF™ line of plush dog toys are the perfect choice for playtime and mental stimulation for your furry kids!
3. Bonding and Training
Squeaky toys can be one of the most effective aids in creating a closer connection and teaching your dog. These toys help to enhance the friendly relationship between you and your dog via play activities. Moreover, squeaky toys may be employed during the training sessions in order to encourage the correct behavior.
4. Dental Health
Some of the squeaky toys are actually healthy for the dog’s teeth, depending on the material used in making the toys. Rubber toys with rough skin can massage gums and minimize tartar when your dog chews it.
Choosing the Right Squeaky Toy for Your Pup
It is therefore very important to select the right squeaky toy for your dog if they are to benefit from it most.
1. Consider Your Dog's Size and Age
Select a toy that is suited to your pet’s size and age. A toy that is too small presents a choking hazard while a toy that is too large cannot be easily played with by your dog. Puppies and elders might need soft toys that are less rigorous whereas adults may require tough toys that challenge them.
2. Assess Chewing Habits
Think about how and what your dog chews on. If your dog is an aggressive chewer then you should get toys that are made of hard materials like rubber or nylon. However for less aggressive chewers, stuffed toys with squeakers might be ideal.
3. Noise Level
Some dogs (and their owners) may like less noisy toys. If the noise is a bit annoying then choose toys with what is referred to as ‘silent squeakers’ which squeak only in the ears of the dog. It is also possible to use toys that make crinkling or rattling noises which can be enjoyable.
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Supervised Play Is Key
Squeaky toys are always enjoyable, but you need to ensure that your dog is supervised during playtime with the toy.
1. Monitor Playtime
Supervise your dog every time they are playing with squeaky toys especially if they have a habit of chewing their toys. Puppies that are notorious for chewing may destroy the toy and gulp down small pieces that may cause chocking or form bottlenecks in the intestine.
2. Choose Durable Toys
Choose toys that are hard wearing and can stand up to your dog’s chewing activities. Do not buy toys with pieces that can be easily pulled off since they may lead to choking.
3. Rotate Toys
To ensure that the dog does not get bored, the toys should be changed regularly. Switch to new toys and pack away some toys for later to change the play pattern from time to time.
4. Replace Damaged Toys
Always check on the condition of your dog’s toys for signs of damage or deterioration. In case a toy is damaged or in situation where the squeaker is out, it should be replaced to prevent these dangers.
Conclusion
Squeaky toys are great for your dog because they’re fun, entertaining, and help stimulate the dog’s brain. Learning why dogs enjoy squeaky toys allows you to decide which toys are best for your pet and prevent any potential harm.
Thus, using the right toys, paying close attention to the playtime, and changing toys frequently will help your furry child have fun and be engaged for hours.
Recall that to ensure your dog has a happy, healthy life it needs exercise, mental activity, and quality time spent with you. For that, discover the Nandog Pet Gear® line of squeak dog toys and start your collection. Your pup will love it!