Finding a quiet dog toy is like finding a dog that doesn’t bark at the doorbell. Most dogs go barking mad for squeaky toys. But why do dogs like squeaky toys? What is it about that high-pitched sound that keeps our curious pup entertained for hours on end? Keep reading to learn why squeaky toys are some of the best chew toys for dogs and a favourite pastime for our furry friends.
Why do dogs like toys with squeakers?
Squeaky dog toys come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and textures. From the plastic squeaking chicken to the plush dog bone, there’s a squeaky toy for every dog. But why do dogs like squeaky toys so much?
Well, they actually help your dog tap into their animal instinct. Animal researchers have found that dogs’ love of squeaky toys can be traced back to their wild ancestors. While we might not like to think of our lil pups as predators, the instincts of their wolf heritage still influences them today. The high-pitched sound of squeaky toys taps into their predator instincts as it resembles the squeaks and noises a scared or injured animal would make. Although the squeaking sound can be annoying to us, by resembling the sound of their prey, squeaky toys are able to tap into the primal instinct of our friendly pooches.
Then why do dogs chew the squeaker out of the toy?
Much to the dismay of their owners, some dogs keep gnawing on their squeaky toy until they rip out the plastic squeaker. Dogs prefer toys that can be torn apart, smell like something they can eat, or something that makes noise, which is why dogs keep going till they’ve broken the toy and removed the squeaker – in other words they’ve essentially ‘killed’ their prey.
If the toy is still making noise, it's still “alive”, which is why some dogs obsess over their squeaky toys and lose interest as soon as the squeak is gone. So perhaps think ahead before you buy the newest and most expensive squeaky toy filled with fluff and feathers.
Squeaky toys provide instant stimulation and reward
Aside from tapping into their ancestors’ instincts, many dogs also enjoy the instant gratification they get from continually chewing on a squeaker toy. The sound from a squeaky toy gives your dog a little ego boost and instant feedback that their bite is strong and effective, keeping them stimulated enough to continue playing.
Make sure to always supervise squeaky toy play
Squeaky toys might be great fun, but unlike solid rubber or stuffing free toys, there’s potential dangers. Although most dogs shred squeaky toys and rip out the speaker without swallowing the stuffing or the speaker, playtime should always be supervised. The last thing you’d want is your dog getting so caught up in the hunt that it swallows part of its toys.
Avoid an expensive pet visit by supervising your dog during squeaker toy time (especially with a new squeaker) to avoid any mishaps. It’s also a good idea to check your dog’s toys to make sure the toy doesn’t have any parts that could be dangerous for your dog. Dogs with a history of eating foreign objects probably shouldn’t be introduced to squeaky toys either, and instead should go for a sturdier toy.
What if my dog is afraid of squeaky toys?
Not all dogs love squeaky toys, either. If your dog runs the other way when you introduce a squeaky toy, that’s normal too. Dogs with less desire to play with squeaky toys or weaker prey drive may find loud noises frightening.
You can look for a toy with a softer squeak, or you can also set the toy among other toys to see if they’d explore it on their own or show the toy is fun by tossing it or tugging it without making the noise. They might come around, but if not there's plenty of other toys, balls and tugging toys. Squeaky toys aren’t for every pup. Plus pet parents might enjoy a peaceful home without all the squeaking.
Now you know why squeaky toys are some of the best chew toys for dogs, why not try some out?Not only do squeaker toys tap into our pooches’ predator drive, they also provide stimulation and reward. Just remember, it’s important to supervise toy play and to find the right toy for your dog.
