Have you ever gotten your dog ready to take a walk and noticed they had a toy in their mouth? Dogs sometimes do quirky things that might cause pet parents to scratch their heads, and usually, there is a reason behind a certain behavior. So, why do dogs carry toys on walks? Here are some reasons why dogs might carry toys on walks:

1. It helps them self-regulate.
2. It’s an instinct.
3. They love the attention.
4. They enjoy how it feels.

1. It Helps Them Self-Regulate

Carrying a toy on walks can help a dog self-regulate energy levels or help an anxious dog feel safer. Sometimes, dogs can feel anxious in certain situations, even when they enjoy a certain activity, such as going on a walk. Much like children often have a favorite stuffed animal they like to carry around as a source of comfort, carrying a toy on a walk can help dogs focus and help lower anxiety levels. It’s a way of releasing tension in a healthy manner.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that your dog is an anxious dog. It could simply help them feel better in situations where they don’t feel completely confident. It may also just be that they find the toy comforting, so they want to bring it along on a walk because it makes them feel good.

2. It’s an Instinct

Like a lot of common dog behaviors, carrying a toy on a walk might come down to their natural instinct. Carrying a toy is much like retrieving prey, which is a trait that quite a few dog breeds have been bred to have. If you have a Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever, you might notice this behavior more than dog owners with other breeds.

Because these dogs have been bred to be retrievers, the instinct to carry a toy or other object is basically part of their DNA. Carrying a toy on a walk feels so natural and also satisfying to these kinds of retriever breeds. If your dog seems happy and satisfied carrying a toy, this might just be them following their instinct.

3. They Love the Attention

Dogs are highly motivated to do things that may get them attention. If your dog has ever carried a toy on a walk, and people have stopped and exclaimed over how cute or funny it was, this could be positively reinforcing to your dog that this behavior gets them attention and praise.

Dogs are incredibly perceptive at learning what behavior gets reactions from humans. This can be positive or negative, depending on the behavior. Once a behavior has gotten them attention, they are much more likely to repeat this behavior.

However, just because your dog has learned that carrying a toy might get them attention does not mean that they’ve started carrying a toy to get attention. Most likely, they were carrying the toy for another reason, such as a basic instinct, and learned that carrying the toy also gets them attention.

4. They Enjoy How it Feels

Some dogs enjoy how carrying a toy feels in their mouth. While some dogs prefer something softer, like a toy with a soft fabric, other dogs might prefer something a little more sturdy, such as a toy used for tugging. If a dog likes how a toy feels in their mouth, they may want to carry it with them everywhere they go.

Is it Safe for Dogs to Carry Toys on Walks?

While this behavior is a little bit quirky, it’s not uncommon in dogs and typically is safe and not a cause for concern. It actually can show that your dog is able to manage any emotional need in a constructive way. Rather than acting out, they choose to carry a toy to help them feel safe or happy.

However, there are a few instances where this behavior might point to some underlying issues. If this behavior becomes obsessive or compulsive, this could indicate that your dog is suffering from anxiety. If you suspect your dog is anxious or see signs your dog is stressed, you might notice they may seem lost or scared if they don’t have the toy with them.

A dog that is prone to resource guarding could exhibit problematic behaviors if they perceive other people or dogs as a risk to what they’re carrying. You should also make sure that your dog is not being unsafe while carrying the toy. If you notice that they’re struggling to keep it in their mouth or they drop it while crossing a street, you may want to figure out a way to be safer.

You could try a different type of toy that’s easier for them to carry, or try to avoid areas where stopping somewhere to pick up a dropped toy is dangerous. A lighter toy and one that they are able to carry more easily is also less likely to damage their mouth and teeth should something happen.

If the behavior is causing issues, don’t be afraid to implement some dog walk tips or reach out to a certified dog trainer. If you’re noticing signs of anxiety or stress, you can talk to your veterinarian. They may be able to help you figure out changes to help your dog and may prescribe medication if they think it’s necessary.

So, why do dogs carry toys on walks? It can be instinctual, it can be soothing, or it could just be fun for your dog. This behavior is completely normal, but if you are noticing any signs of anxiety or nervousness, don’t be afraid to reach out to your veterinarian or a dog trainer. Otherwise, let your dog have fun carrying around a prized possession!