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Study Finds Some Dogs Show Addiction-Like Attachment to Toys
Researchers examined questionnaire data from more than 1,600 dogs and linked intense toy motivation to traits including difficulty calming and reduced daytime sleep. The study, published in The Royal Society Open Science, noted higher tendencies among shepherd, terrier and retriever breeds.
Jul 15, 3:40 AM·1m read1 source
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A study published in the journal The Royal Society Open Science found that some dogs display addiction-like behaviors toward toys, including persistent attempts to reach an inaccessible object and difficulty relaxing once play ends. The Independent reported that scientists reached these conclusions after analyzing behavioral questionnaire responses from more than 1,600 dogs.
Very high toy attachment correlated with traits such as easy motivation, prolonged arousal and reduced daytime sleep.
Some dogs prioritized retrieving a toy over eating or interacting with people when the object was out of reach. The same patterns appeared more frequently in breeds developed for sport or work. Shepherd-type dogs recorded the highest average scores for toy motivation, followed by terriers and retrievers.
Other breed groups showed lower enthusiasm for toy play. Researchers noted that several associated traits were already visible during puppyhood. Previous research cited in the study indicated that object play can elevate dopamine, opioid and norepinephrine activity in dogs.
The authors observed that extreme persistence, while potentially disadvantageous in a pet setting, can support performance in working roles. The Independent reported that the findings suggest an early developmental origin for these behaviors.
