Introduction
We’ve all experienced the heartwarming moment when our dog greets us at the door, favorite toy or random object in mouth, tail wagging excitedly. While adorable, this somewhat peculiar behavior makes you wonder – why does my dog greet me with something in her mouth?
In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons behind this behavior, including signs of affection, boredom, anxiety, and more. We’ll also provide tips on training and determining when you may need to consult a professional. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of your pup’s actions and how to encourage positive greetings.
Evolutionary Origins
Bringing objects to their owners is likely an extension of wolf behavior where wolf mothers would regurgitate food for their pups. According to https://www.treehugger.com/why-dogs-hoard-things-4863058, this regurgitation behavior reinforced the bond between wolf mother and pups. Domestic dogs inherited this instinctual need to reinforce bonds by bringing items to their human owners.
Showing Affection
Bringing objects is one way dogs show affection and their desire to please their owners. According to the Wisconsin Pet Care article, “Why Do Dogs? Bring gifts to us when we arrive home?”, dogs bring items to their owners out of excitement and as a way to interact with their favorite humans (https://wisconsinpetcare.com/dogs-bring-gifts-us-arrive-home-katelyn-schutz-cpdt/). The act of retrieving objects gives dogs an opportunity to spend time with their owners, receive praise, and strengthen their bond.
Dogs are social animals that crave attention from their human families. Bringing random household items or toys to present can be the dog’s way of showing love and affection. According to the Wisconsin Pet Care article, “Even if it means their affection is shown by bringing you your dirty sock from the hamper… But did you ever wonder WHY some dogs love to lavish you with (sometimes unappealing) treasures?” Dogs simply want to show excitement and delight when their loved ones come home.
Playing Fetch
Many dogs absolutely love playing fetch. According to the American Kennel Club, breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, and Australian Shepherds are especially prone to chasing and retrieving balls and toys 1. Fetching behavior is deeply ingrained in these dogs and they often want to continue the game by bringing the object back to their owner after retrieving it.
This instinctive fetching behavior comes from dogs’ ancestry as hunters and retrievers. When playing fetch, dogs get to express their natural chase drive in a safe, fun way with their owners. They enjoy the physical and mental stimulation of running after the object, grabbing it, and bringing it back for another round. The reward of praise and getting the toy thrown again reinforces the behavior.
Some dogs can become obsessed with fetch and play the game for hours if allowed. While most dogs love fetch, owners should limit overly obsessive fetch play to prevent joint injuries or anxiety. Breaks can help make the game more rewarding. Playing different games in addition to fetch ensures a dog stays mentally stimulated.
Teething
Puppies begin teething around 3-4 months of age as their deciduous (baby) teeth start to fall out and the permanent adult teeth begin to erupt. This is a painful and uncomfortable process that causes puppies to seek relief through chewing and mouthing behaviors. Carrying objects provides puppies with much needed relief as the pressure from clenching helps counteract the pain from emerging teeth. As VCA Hospitals notes, chewing and carrying objects are normal teething behaviors for puppies.
The pain and discomfort from teething causes puppies to chew and mouth objects more frequently. Carrying toys or other objects around provides chewing stimulation and pressure that brings relief. Puppies may start carrying around and chewing on items more often during the teething process as it helps mitigate the pain. Providing safe and durable chew toys can satisfy a teething puppy’s needs to chew and carry objects for comfort.
Boredom
Dogs may bring objects when bored as a way to get their owner’s attention. When dogs are understimulated or don’t have enough mental and physical activity, they can become bored. Bringing items to their owner is a way for them to initiate playtime or interact with their human. According to My Dog Keeps Bringing Me Things. Why?, dogs are brilliant and when bored will find ways like retrieving objects to get their owner’s engagement. It provides mental stimulation for the dog and redirects their energy into an acceptable activity.
Anxiety
Anxious dogs may carry objects around as it provides comfort and reassurance. Dogs can develop anxiety for many reasons, including separation from their owner, loud noises, or changes to their environment. Carrying a favorite toy or object can help relieve stress and make them feel more secure. The familiar smell and texture of the object is soothing, much like a child finding comfort in their favorite stuffed animal or blanket. Some experts believe that dogs who mouth and carry objects are self-soothing, similar to thumb-sucking in infants. The action releases endorphins that help the dog feel calm. While mild anxiety is normal, owners should watch for excessive clinginess, destructiveness, or other worrying behavior. If anxiety seems severe or ongoing, discuss options with your veterinarian, such as behavior modification training or anti-anxiety medications.
Training
Some dogs can be trained to fetch specific items when asked. An article from WagWalking.com suggests starting by teaching the dog to recognize different objects by their names. The first step is to hold up an object, say its name, and give the dog a treat. Repeat this several times with different objects. Then, throw the object a short distance and say “fetch [object name]!” When the dog picks up the object, reward with praise and treats. Gradually increase the distance. With patience and practice, the dog will learn to fetch specific items when the name is said.[1]
It’s important to reward the dog every time it correctly fetches the named object. The reward reinforces the behavior. Over time, consistently rewarding successful fetching of objects by name will teach the dog this trick. However, if the dog struggles to learn, it may require more training of basic fetch commands first.
When to Worry
While most dogs bringing objects is harmless, constant object carrying could signal an underlying issue like separation anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Dogs with separation anxiety may frantically search for items when left alone as a self-soothing behavior. Dogs with OCD feel compelled to carry objects repeatedly regardless of circumstances. These conditions should be evaluated by a veterinarian, as they can lead to destructive behaviors if left untreated.
Consult your vet if your dog’s object carrying seems excessive or distressing for them. Medication, behavioral training, or environmental changes may help anxious or obsessive dogs feel more secure. While carrying a toy or item now and then is usually normal dog behavior, nonstop object fetching warrants a veterinary exam to rule out psychological issues. With compassionate training and care, dogs who carry objects compulsively can learn new coping mechanisms and interact with their owners in healthier ways.
Conclusion
Understanding why your dog greets you with objects in their mouth can help strengthen your bond and train them positively. This behavior stems from natural dog instincts around affection, play, anxiety and more. The main reasons dogs bring objects to their owners include showing love, interest in playing fetch, teething, boredom, and anxiety when separated.
It’s important not to react negatively when your dog greets you this way, as they don’t understand it can be bothersome. Instead, use positive reinforcement to encourage other behaviors. You can also try providing more stimulation when you’re gone to ease separation anxiety.
While greeting you with objects may seem odd, it comes instinctually to dogs. Recognizing the origins and addressing the underlying motivation will lead to a happier, healthier dog-owner relationship.