Do you know what one of the most popular items is in a dog’s toy box? If you guessed a squeaky toy, you are absolutely correct! It’s like music to their ears. Dogs with squeaky toys are the happiest dogs around.
But why do dogs like squeaky toys so much? Let’s take a look at 7 reasons why dogs go crazy for this type of toy.
In This Article:
So Why Do Dogs Like Squeaky Toys? 7 Reasons
Why is my dog obsessed with her squeaky toy? Let’s demystify why dogs are so fascinated by them:
1. They’re Like Little Animals
Dogs see squeaky toys as little prey animals. When they squeak, it sounds like a captured animal crying out, which is irresistible to a dog’s natural hunting instincts and prey drive. This sound lets them know that they’ve found their next meal, and each squeak is like a little victory.
2. It’s a Challenge
To dogs, anything that squeaks is a challenge. They become determined to figure out how to make it stop. This means they’ll keep playing with it until they either break it or get tired – whichever comes first! This can be exhausting for many dog parents, but they just can’t help themselves.
3. The Rubber of the Squeaky Component Has an Interesting Texture
The texture of the rubber that the squeaky component is made out of is interesting to dogs. It’s not like anything else they’ve ever experienced before, and they can’t get enough of it. Dogs love to chew on it, and sometimes even just hold it in their mouths without actually chewing.
4. The Toy Feels Good For Teething Pups
If your dog is young and actively teething, their squeaky toys’ rubbery taut texture may relieve their sore gums. They will chew on them for hours, and feel much better when they’re finished. You’ll notice that a teething dog will rub his gums along the toy, as well as chew on it.
This can also be good for general teeth health for every dog, as it helps to keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy through stimulation.
5. Squeaky Toys Can Help Relieve Anxiety
Playing with squeaky toys can prevent anxious dogs from other destructive behaviors such as chewing on furniture or themselves. It gives them something to focus their energy on and takes their mind off of whatever is causing their anxiety.
6. It Gets the Attention of Their Human
Dogs love getting our attention, and squeaky toys are a great way to do that. They know that when they start playing with their toy, we’ll usually watch them or even join in on the fun. It’s a great way to bond with their favorite person.
You can make an association between quality play time and the squeaker toy by squeezing it a few times to indicate that playtime has begun. Your pupper will quickly learn that when they hear the squeak, it means fun is about to happen!
7. Dogs Just Love the Sound!
Last but not least, dogs simply love the sound of a squeaky toy. It’s a high-pitched noise that grabs their attention and won’t let go. Different squeaky toys have different tone levels, so dogs and their humans can find the perfect one that they love.
Check out our separate article on the 9 Best Squeaky Toys for Your Fearless and Curious Dog.
Should I Let My Dog Play With Squeaky Toys?
Squeaky toys are made to make dogs happy, so there’s nothing wrong with giving this fun item to them. However, being cautious and observant can help keep your pup safe while playing with their musical squeaky toy.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Check the Toy Regularly
Before playing with them, take a moment to inspect your dog’s squeaky toy. Make sure there are no cracks, tears, or pieces missing that could pose a choking hazard. Also, ensure the stitching is secure and will not come undone easily.
2. Don’t Let Your Dog Play With a Broken Squeaky Toy
If you do see any damage or other signs of wear, it’s time to get rid of the toy. Do not let your dog continue playing with a broken squeaky toy as they could choke on the small pieces.
3. Make Sure Your Squeaky Toy Is Made Out of Safe Materials
When purchasing squeaky toys for your four-legged friend, make sure that there aren’t any hazardous materials involved. You may need to do a little research or ask the salesperson to find out what the toy is made of.
You’ll also want to make sure that the squeaky toys are made with durable materials if your dog is a heavy chewer. Finally, make sure that you choose the right size when picking toys out for your pupper. Don’t get a toy that’s too small as your dog could choke on it.
4. Supervise Playtime
While dogs are usually good at playing with their squeaky toys safely, it’s always best to supervise playtime, especially with a new toy. This way, you can be sure that your pupperino is not choking on the toy or eating any of the stuffing.
Your dog will also appreciate your being around during playtime as it’s a great way to bond with them!
5. Know When to Take the Toy Away
Even the best dogs can get a little too excited when playing with their squeaky toys. As mentioned above, the experience emulates a hunting instinct that can be really difficult for dogs to control.
If you see that your dog is getting too worked up or is starting to become aggressive, it’s time to take the toy away and end playtime for the day. Use this as a training moment and switch to a non-squeaky toy for the rest of the play session.
Why Is My Dog Protective of Her Squeaky Toy?
Dogs can become protective of their squeaky toys because they see them as valuable items – and in their eyes, anything that’s valuable must be guarded. This is especially true if the squeaky toy is one of their favorite things.
If you notice that your dog is acting possessive or aggressive when someone comes near their squeaky toy, the best thing you can do is to provide them with more toys and playtime. This will help them learn that there’s no need to guard their belongings because they’ll always have plenty of things to enjoy.
Training your four-legged best friend can also help to reduce their possessiveness. Try using positive reinforcement techniques to teach them that good things happen when they share their toys with others.
Are Squeaky Toys Bad For Dogs?
No, squeaky toys aren’t inherently bad for dogs. They’re more often bad for humans because they can get pretty annoying after a while, especially if your dog is obsessed with the squeaky noise.
If your dog is well-trained and you only pull the squeak toy out during appropriate times of the day (i.e. when no one’s sleeping) then you’ll likely be just fine. As long as the above safety precautions are taken and your dog doesn’t immediately puncture the toy and deflate the squeaker, squeaky toys can actually be pretty safe for dogs.
Why Does My Dog Bring Me a Toy but Not Let Me Take It?
Have you ever had your dog bring you a squeaky toy but then not let you take it away from them? This is usually because your pupperino is trying to get you engaged in a game. By not sharing the toy or letting you take it away from them, they’re trying to start a fun play session between the two of you.
Your dog probably has a lot of pent-up energy at this moment and just wants to let loose and have some fun. If you’re calm in the moment, your pup is probably withholding the toy to force you to get up and chase him down for it. Dogs are very smart in this way and know how to get us, humans, to do what they want, even when we’re being couch potatoes!
The Bottom Line
Why do dogs like toys that squeak? For the same reason that human babies like toys with rattles – it’s just plain fun! Squeaky toys are entertaining for dogs of all ages, and they’ll never tire of chasing after that elusive squeak.
So, if you can handle the squeaking sound, go ahead and give your pup a squeaky toy to enjoy. Just be sure to supervise playtime and inspect the toy regularly to ensure that it’s safe. He’ll be a happy, happy dog!
DM us a picture of your pupper with their fave squeaky toy, name, breed, and age to our Instagram @pamperedpuppers1. We’d love to post it on our page!
