There are a few theories that can enlighten us on why dogs are so captivated by the squeaky rumpuses which are emitted by these infamous noisy toys. Some dogs get inspired by an instinctual drive, while others assert that dogs wallow in the feeling of instant gratification.
Hunting Reflexes
Dogs are successors of wolves, and they share an extraordinarily similar DNA structure. That’s why it’s not surprising that they have the same behavioral qualities too. A squeaky toy resembles the sound of injured or frightened prey, which in turn kindle their innate wolf-like motivation to keep attacking. Once the toy stops squeaking, it divulges to your dog that the target is efficaciously killed, and they can stop the assault. This behavior is more eminent in terriers, herding, and sporting dog breeds. Prey drive is descending from thousands of years ago when dogs evolved from their wild, wolf descendants and had to hunt for them to survive. When peoples started to breed with dogs, the prey drive was bred to be higher in particular breeds and less powerful in others.
Squeaky Toys With Special Features
- Some squeaky dog toys are made with unique features. For instance, one type is made with two layers of durable fabric, and the squeaker doesn’t stop squeaking even after the toy is punctured. They also have no stuffing, which means there will be no mess for you to clean up afterward.
- Another example of super entertaining squeaky toys is one that features various rows of squeakers that will make for endless play.
Instant Gratification
Another reason why dogs love these toys so much is that they can’t abstain from the immediate reward that is associated with that sound. The continuous auditory reaction characteristic of squeaky toys alerts them that their bite is valuable enough to get a reaction. Check out Fuzzy Rescue to learn more about the subject. To dogs, this is a much better toy as opposed to one that has no response when they chew into it.
Health Benefits Associated With Squeaky Toys
There are numerous benefits linked to squeaky toy fun time. Just like people, playtime for dogs is healthy behavior. Aside from the recognized benefits of exercise, boosting your dog’s instinctive prey drive helps him to be just a dog. Outlets that allow dogs to respond naturally will help with them not taking this behavior out on other less desirable things like your couch, shoes, or garden. Squeaky toys are highly efficient training tools for capturing your dog’s attention and initiating rewards for good behavior. Because these toys are so well-liked among pooches, they can be an excellent way to motivate your dog.
It’s essential to manage squeaky toy play, mainly because dogs tend to get overstimulated quickly. If this is happening with your dog, then you must limit this type of game and keep it confined within short durations. Remember to give your dog the command of sit before throwing or giving the toy to them. Always discard damaged toys since it can pose a severe health concern if it gets lodged in his throat.
