Is Your Dog Addicted To Toys? New Study Suggests Dogs May Exhibit Addiction-Like Behaviours

New research indicates that some dogs may develop behaviours akin to human addictions, particularly concerning their favourite toys. A study involving 105 dogs revealed that when deprived of certain cherished items, some canines exhibited elevated stress responses and an intense focus on the lost object, mirroring patterns seen in human behavioural addictions.

Key Takeaways

• A study found that a third of dogs displayed behaviours consistent with addiction criteria when deprived of their favourite toys.
• Obsessive behaviours were more common in traditional working breeds like German Shepherds and Collies.
• Dopamine, a key neurotransmitter in the brain's reward system, is believed to play a role in these behaviours.
• Researchers caution against using the study as a diagnostic tool for labelling dogs as addicts.

Understanding Canine Compulsions

Researchers from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna have explored the phenomenon of dogs becoming excessively attached to specific toys. Their study, published in Scientific Reports, observed that when certain dogs were separated from their preferred playthings, their blood pressure increased, and they showed a persistent fixation, ignoring other stimuli. This behaviour is described as a compulsive engagement with an activity despite potential negative consequences.

Previously, evidence for such addiction-like behaviours in dogs was largely anecdotal. However, the study aimed to investigate whether highly motivated dogs might meet addiction criteria established in human literature. The findings suggest that a significant portion of dogs, particularly breeds like German Shepherds and Collies, can exhibit these compulsive tendencies.

The Science Behind Toy Obsession

Professional dog trainer Una McEvoy explains that dopamine, a hormone crucial for the brain's reward and motivation system, is likely involved. Dopamine is released during pleasurable activities, reinforcing those behaviours. In humans, addictive substances often trigger dopamine release, but dogs can experience this release through actions like chasing a ball or playing with a toy. Different breeds may derive this dopamine release from various activities, such as scent work, eating, or playing with specific toys.

A Growing Industry

The pet toy industry is a significant global market. In Australia alone, the pet industry was valued at $13 billion in 2022, encompassing food, veterinary care, and accessories. For dog owners, the lifetime cost of a dog can be substantial, estimated at around $25,000. While the study highlights potential compulsive behaviours, it's important to note that researchers advise against using it as a definitive diagnostic tool, acknowledging the complexities and grey areas in defining behavioural addictions, even in humans.

McEvoy suggests that interactive play between owners and their dogs is paramount for a dog's happiness. She recommends two-player toys that encourage engagement and strengthen the bond between pet and owner, rather than solely relying on solitary play with objects like balls.

Sources

• Could your dog be an addict? Scientists think so, SBS Australia.