Dogs are unique in the same way that all humans have different likes and dislikes. While some dogs may be interested in playing with squeaky toys, others like to chase tennis balls. Some dogs get visibly excited at the sight of any new toy, while others can lose interest fairly quickly. If your dog doesn’t have an interest in toys, you may be wondering why. Once you determine the root of your furry friend’s lack of love for dog toys, you will be able to find toys that spark their curiosity.
Here are some reasons why your dog doesn’t like toys:
Reasons Why Your Dog May Not Be Interested In Toys
Many pet owners get concerned when they realize that their pup won’t play with toys. Understandably, this can be very confusing, as it seems that most dogs are overjoyed to have a new toy to play with. There can be many reasons for your dog’s lack of interest in toys. Here are some of the most common reasons:
Boredom and Depression: When a dog has to spend many hours alone, it can lead to boredom and in some cases depression.
Stressed and Afraid: If you have a rescue dog, their past traumas can prevent them from enjoying the toys in front of them. Especially if your dog comes from an abusive environment, it can be difficult for them to relax enough to play with the toys.
Your Pup Needs a Playmate: Some dogs prefer to play with you or even other dogs. For example, it can be hard to play tug-of-war when you are playing alone.
Doesn’t Know How to Play: Some dogs need to be motivated to play with their toys. You can do this by picking up some of your dog’s highly rewarding toys and seeing which ones spark their interest.
Health issue: Older dogs can experience health issues that prevent them from enjoying their toys. Some senior dogs can experience cognitive dysfunction, arthritis, or even tooth decay and gum disease. These conditions can make it difficult for your pet to enjoy playing with toys.
Toys Aren’t That Interesting: Some dogs just aren’t interested in the toys you are buying for them. Dogs lose interest quickly, so it’s important to swap out toys every once in a while.
Find Motivating Toys
One of the main reasons your dog won’t play with toys is that they aren’t motivating. Pay close attention to which toys and activities your pet gravitates toward and base your toy selection on this information. Whether your dog likes to be chased, roughhouse, or eat treats, these are great indicators for purchasing toys. Find toys that mimick those tendencies.
Chase: Purchase tennis balls or frisbees to motivate your dog to play with toys. These toys will encourage your dog to chase and retrieve.
Tug-Of-War: Purchase rope toys to motivate your dog to play with toys. This toy will help encourage a fun game of tug-of-war.
Hide and Seek: Purchase toys that have hidden spots for treats. This will stimulate your dog to find the reward.
Shake: Purchase squeaky toys to motivate your dog to play with toys. The exciting dog will entice your dog.
How To Get Your Dog To Like Toys
Some dogs need to be taught how to play with their toys. Using positive reinforcement throughout this process is very important. Start by holding a toy in one hand and a treat in the other. Once your dog touches the toys, act excited and give them the treat. Repeat this step a few times, so that your dog associates the toy with a reward. Once your dog has mastered this step, try placing the toy on the floor. Wait until your dog touches the toy and act excited when they do. Follow that by giving them the treat. If your dog picks up the toy in its mouth at any point, raise your excitement level. Soon your encouragement will be enough to motivate your dog to play with their toys.
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