Does your dog have a favorite blanket, toy, or plushie that they almost never part with? If so, then that item is most likely their comfort object. Dogs often rely on comfort objects as a source of security and emotional support. For instance, if they’re in a new or stressful environment, simply being able to play with their comfort toy can significantly reduce their anxiety. Some comfort objects can provide dogs with mental stimulation and a sense of routine, and teething puppies may also use their comfort object to satisfy their innate urge to chew.
That being said, dogs can also be particular about what they want in a comfort object. As such, if you’re buying new pet supplies or having custom plush toys made for your dog, it’s important to have an idea of what they look for in their comfort objects so that you can provide them with new ones that will meet those requirements.
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A Guide to the 7 Things Dogs Look for in Their Favorite Comfort Objects
The following are several key factors that dogs may specifically seek when it comes to their comfort objects:
1. Softness and Texture
Many dogs are drawn to blankets and plushies because of their soft texture, which are gentle on their mouths and provide them with a cozy feeling. This is particularly common in dogs that enjoy “nursing” on their toys, as the soft object allows them to mimic the act of suckling from their mother.
Soft toys or plushies can also remind dogs of their littermates, giving them a deep sense of comfort and companionship. Thus, it’s not uncommon to find them snuggling with a soft comfort object as they seek that same warmth they used to get from their mother and siblings.
2. Durability and Chewability
Dogs naturally love to chew. The act allows them to release excess energy, relieve stress, exercise their jaws, or simply have fun. That means they’ll naturally prefer toys that are able to withstand their gnawing, but that aren’t so hard that they damage or hurt the dog’s teeth.
The choice of comfort object to chew on can also depend on a dog’s breed. Some dogs, particularly power chewers such as German shepherds and pit bulls, prefer rubbery or thick fabric toys that can endure their intense chewing. Meanwhile, smaller or older dogs might opt for softer chewing options instead.
3. A Familiar Scent
A dog’s sense of smell is particularly sensitive. This is why bringing them into a completely new environment where they aren’t used to the surrounding smell yet can be a scary or stressful experience for them. It makes sense, then, that another criteria dogs look for in their comfort objects are familiar scents—whether their owner’s scent or a scent they often encounter at home.
For example, they may be attached to a certain blanket because it smells like their bedding and they associate their bedding with safety. Wrapping them in that comfort blanket will allow you to impart a sense of ease, even when your dog is feeling anxious or stressed.
4. Emotional Association
Dogs are also capable of forming emotional attachments to objects, especially if the object was given to them in a positive context. For instance, they may see a stuffed toy given to them when they were a puppy as an important companion they had while growing up. Hence, they’ll remain strongly attached to it even once they’re grown. Having these objects close can evoke that same positive feeling, allowing the dog to feel calmer and more at ease.
5. Size and Shape
Comfort objects that can be easily carried, cuddled with, or played with are a must for many dogs. Puppies and small breeds in particular like toys they can carry with their mouths. Meanwhile, larger breeds may be partial to bigger objects such as plush pillows so that they can rest their heads on them.
The way dogs interact with their comfort objects can also reveal their preferences. Dogs who like shaking their toys, for example, may prefer objects with long limbs or appendages. On the other hand, dogs who are exhibiting nurturing behavior may feel more attached to small plushies that they can gently play with and treat like a puppy of their own.
6. Taste and Mouthfeel
Many dogs also prefer chewing toys with a certain mouthfeel to them. Typically rubbery, soft, or textured in a way that feels satisfying to gnaw on. Comfort toys infused with the smell of common food, such as peanut butter or bacon scents, may also prove to be highly enticing for dogs. And even more so if they already enjoy that food. As many dogs use their comfort objects as something to chew on for oral comfort, objects with a familiar taste or a satisfying mouthfeel can therefore make the act much more effective in calming them down.
7. Interactive Elements
Objects that produce sound or have interesting textures can also be appealing for dogs. These items often become comfort objects because they promise entertainment and mental stimulation for dogs. They can also make their playtime much more exciting and fulfilling. Thus, if you’re planning on introducing new toys to your dog to replace or supplement an old comfort object, then you may be best off with those that come with interactive elements.
Conclusion to Your Dog’s Favorite Comfort Objects
Your dog’s choice of comfort objects relies on a variety of factors. This can include their instincts, past experiences, and personal preferences. Knowing what they get out of interacting with their comfort objects will result in deeper insight about your pet’s behavior. And you’ll then be better equipped to help them feel more secure… Especially during stressful moments!
For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection
