Study Finds Some Dogs Show Toy ‘Addiction-Like’ Behavior, What Owners Need to Know
A recent behavioral study reported in Scientific Reports and covered by The Guardian is sparking debate: some dogs may show addiction-like behavior toward toys. Researchers observed 105 dogs in structured play tasks and used owner questionnaires to measure signs such as intense craving for a toy, attempts to access a toy despite barriers, and ignoring food or other stimuli when the toy was unavailable. While the authors caution against casually calling the behavior an “addiction,” the pattern — craving, loss of control, and negative consequences resembles aspects of behavioral addictions seen in humans.
Breed and Behavior Insights
The research found variability across breeds and individuals: terrier and shepherd-type dogs were more commonly represented in the higher-scoring group. Importantly, the study doesn’t pathologize normal play — play is healthy — but it highlights cases where fixation may harm welfare: obsessive guarding of toys, aggressive reactions when separated from favored objects, or disrupted eating patterns. The paper suggests that genetics, early-life experiences, and owner reinforcement patterns might contribute.
What This Means for Pet Owners
If your dog:
- Obsesses over a specific toy to the point of ignoring food or family members;
- Attempts to retrieve a toy by destructive means or displays intense frustration when prevented;
- Shows aggression or anxiety around certain objects — then it might be time to consult a behaviorist.
Simple steps can reduce fixation: rotate toys (keep favorites out of sight for periods), increase training and structured play variety, and use enrichment that rewards impulse control (e.g., puzzle feeders, scent games).
Read More: 10 Best Interactive Dog Toys That Keep Your Pup Busy, Smart & Happy
Expert Recommendations
Veterinary behaviorists say interventions often start with enrichment and training — not medication — unless the dog’s condition is severe. Teaching “leave it,” building reward-based impulse control, and scheduled play times help set expectations. For severe or safety-risk behaviors, work with a qualified veterinary behaviorist who can evaluate for comorbid anxiety or medical issues.
