Why Do Dogs Destroy Their Toys? Understanding Canine Instincts

How many times have you bought a new toy for your furry friend, only to find it ripped within minutes? Maybe the squeaker is gone, stuffing is scattered across the living room, and you are all amazed to see this. If you are a pet parent and are still left wondering why your dog destroys their toys so quickly? Don’t worry, you are not alone. Most of the pet parents in Abu Dhabi and beyond face the same dilemma. But here’s the good thing: destruction doesn’t mean your pup is naughty. In fact, these are their natural canine instinct and are vital for their development. Let’s break it down in the blog so you can better understand your dog’s canine instinct behind this destructive behaviour and make smarter choices when it comes to buying dog toys.

The Hunting Instinct behind the Toy Destruction

Even though your pup enjoys air-conditioned comfort in Abu Dhabi’s lavish apartments, they are still hardwired with natural hunting instincts. When dogs play with toys, the sounds and textures mimic the behaviour of capturing and dismembering prey. These sounds can trigger a predatory drive, encouraging your dog to chew and tear the toy apart to kill.  For many dogs, it’s a sign of pent-up energy and frustration.  Sometimes, they also express their emotions while whining or crying with their toys. So the next time you see your pet destroying it, don’t think about cruelty; it’s their instinct.

Boredom is a Real Issue, especially in Abu Dhabi’s climate

Let’s be honest, Abu Dhabi’s summers are no joke. With an extremely warm and dusty climate, outdoor activities can be limited for safety reasons. Dogs spend long indoor hours, often without enough mental and physical stimulation, and boredom can quickly become a problem. When a dog is under-stimulated, they seek attention. In this scenario, dog toys are excellent mental stimulators and become the perfect boredom buster. Destructive play becomes a way to burn energy, relieve stress, and keep themselves occupied.

Pro tip: Introduce interactive toys to keep your dog mentally busy and entertained in a hot, enclosed environment.

Chewing is a basic necessity

Gnawing is essential, especially for dogs. It’s not just a play, it’s a way of self-soothing and relieving stress. Puppies between 3-6 months usually go through a teething stage, where they experience gum discomfort. Destroying toys at this stage is quite normal to relieve teething pain and pressure. However, providing the right chew-friendly toys are crucial to protect your belongings from the chewing process. In Abu Dhabi, where many households live in confined apartments, dogs might not get the space to run freely; this leads to anxiety over time. Gnawing can be a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety.

Pro tip: Keep rotating the toys, as it can help keep your dog’s interest and make each day a little different for them.

How to Choose the Right Toy for Your Furry Friend?

Here are some tips to choose the perfect toys that match your dog’s play style and chewing strength.

Opt for tough, durable toys:

Choose materials that are built to last long. Loose stitching and flimsy materials are an invitation for your dog to go into a destructive mode.

Match Toys to Your Dog’s Size and Breed:

Different breeds require different ranges of toys. Larger breeds with strong jaws, like Labrador retrievers, need tougher material, while smaller dogs prefer softer but durable options. Select impressive  toys suitable for all breeds, sizes, and energy levels.

Introduce interactive Toys

Engaging toys can stimulate their body by offering exercises along with fun. It helps to encourage your pet’s mental ability and reduce boredom. Toys like chew toys help in maintaining dental health; meanwhile, plush toys are a great way to provide comfort while cuddling with joy.  Expert advice: Keep rotating the toys, instead of leaving them all at once. This keeps your pet occupied, makes playtime interesting, and reduces the urge to destroy out of frustration.

Invest in the safest materials possible

Try to pick elements appropriate for your pet’s dermal health. Low-quality ones can lead to rashes and itchy skin over time. Always try to supervise your pet during playtime because no toy is completely indestructible. Remove broken pieces instantly to prevent any kind of suffocation and digestive issues.

Final Thoughts

So, next time you see your pet destroying a toy, don’t scold them. Instead, consider it a victory because it’s their way of expressing instinctive behaviour. As a pet parent in Abu Dhabi, your job is to guide them with safe, durable, and interactive toys. Are you someone looking for all these features in your pet’s toys? Visit the Pets Corner today and buy cute, premium dog toys for your furry friend.

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