Many dog owners have seen a funny picture: their pet proudly carries a stick in its teeth that it found on a walk.
This habit has its roots in the distant past and has several explanations related to the instincts and behavioral characteristics of dogs.
Hunting instinct
Dogs are descendants of wolves, who have hunted for food for thousands of years.
Bringing a stick imitates the process of bringing prey to the den. For a dog, this is a way to demonstrate its hunting skills and please its owner, whom it perceives as the leader of the pack.
Desire to play
Dogs are playful creatures and a stick is a great tool for their entertainment.
It can be used as a fetching, tug-of-war, or simply chewing object. Such games help the dog release energy, develop physical skills, and strengthen the bond with the owner.
Method of communication
A dog may bring a stick to attract the owner's attention and invite him to play.
This is a unique way of communication that helps the pet express its desires and needs. An attentive owner will always understand the hints of his four-legged friend.
Satisfying the chewing instinct
Many dogs feel the need to chew on something. This is due to the peculiarities of their dental system and jaws.
A stick is a natural and accessible chewing object that helps your dog clean plaque from his teeth and massage his gums.
Factors influencing the choice of a pole
- Size and shape: The dog chooses a stick that is comfortable for it to carry in its mouth. Usually these are medium-sized sticks, not too thick and not too thin.
- Texture: Dogs enjoy chewing on sticks with a rough surface that massages their gums and helps clean their teeth.
- Smell: Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. They may choose sticks with interesting smells that attract their attention.
Safety first
While fetching sticks is a natural behavior for dogs, it is important to keep your pet's safety in mind.
Sharp branches and splinters can damage the dog's mouth and esophagus. It is better to choose sticks made of soft wood, without sharp corners and branches. In addition, it is worth ensuring that the dog does not swallow pieces of wood.
Earlier we talked about the strongest dog in the world.
