Why Do Dogs Need Comfort Items?
Why do humans need comfort items? It’s really subjective, and the same goes for why our dogs need comfort items. Just like humans, dogs feel anxiety and stress. They don’t love loud noises or being lonely or changes in their life more than we do, really. Comfort items help them self-soothe and provide emotional support when we can’t hold them close. We all have had that special toy, blankie, or even item of clothing that just makes us feel…good. For dogs, comfort items do the same.
The Science Behind Comfort Items
How do comfort toys or other items for dogs work? Basically, when your dog comes in contact with something like a blanket or their favorite stuffed toy, it can trigger the release of oxytocin in their brain. This is often called the ‘love hormone’ and it can help lower their stress and bring them feelings of happiness. It’s like having you with them, even if you can’t be with them.
Dogs also are very conditioned creatures. They associate things with positive or negative experiences. If your dog gets a treat every time they go to their blanket, they’ll start to associate that item with positive feelings that may bring them comfort even if they’re not getting a treat.
Additionally, chewing and playing with toys they love or that stimulate their sensory system can be a great distraction. When dogs are distracted and their minds are engaged in something other than what’s stressing them, they can relax. There are different types of comfort items for dogs. Some appeal to their emotions, others to their actual need for physical warmth/comfort. Some appeal to their desire for consistency, and some are just innate, intrinsic drives that have been bred into them. But, just like all humans are different, all dogs are too, and what brings them comfort can differ.
Comfort Items For Dogs
- Plush Toys and Companions.
Plush toys/stuffies like Snuggle Puppy help give dogs some security and even a sense of protective normalcy for anxious dogs. They are something to snuggle up to, bring a physical presence, and feel soft and soothing for dogs. Some stuffies even mimic a Mama dog’s presence with a heartbeat sound or warmth. Even if it’s just a random stuffy toy, it may become a special one to your dog, so let them be the lead on what brings them comfort. When you discover a special friend/plushie, consider getting a couple backups in case there’s a little too much love and you need to replace it!When it comes to these, though, just remember that the plushie is suited to your dog not just in preference but in safety. Some dogs might find a plushie soothing; others may find it appetizing and delicious, so be sure to pay attention and make sure your dog doesn’t end up with a possible blockage from digesting the toy. - Pieces of ‘home’.
Sometimes (and especially with puppies) having comfort items that remind your dog of their parent, like a t-shirt or blanket, can be comforting. It can remind them of maternal feelings of warmth and protection. Sometimes when dogs come from breeders, things that remind them of their litter mates may be helpful for the transition between homes. Dogs are scent-driven, and that smell of something familiar and loved can be comforting. - Calming Coats and Vests.
Calming coats and vests like a Thundershirt can also be super comforting for dogs. If your dog has separation anxiety or noise aversion, these comfort items appeal to their sensory system to help their anxiety and bring them some calm. Many dog parents make sure that they have these items for times they know their dog may need to feel a little more safe and secure (holidays, etc.). - Chew Toys.
Chew toys are more than just fun for them. Chewing can help reduce anxiety and stress, similar to how some chew gum when nervous. Quality chewing toys keep dogs busy and that helps stimulate them mentally (and distract them from the worry). They can help your dog get nervousness out in a positive way that works with their natural chewing instincts. When your dog is chewing on a chew toy, they’re releasing endorphins, which are nature’s natural stress relievers! One thing to note, it’s always a good idea to supervise your dog when chewing toys.
- Calming Aids and Treats
Calming aids like CBD, calming treats or pheromone diffusers help comfort dogs too by working on their super powerful olfactory system. Some try to mimic the scent of a mother dog’s presence and things like this can be comfort for your dog when you’re crate training or just wanting them to feel safe before a trip to the vet.Calming treats and chews can give them mental stimulation and relaxation for anxious dogs. They’re usually made with ingredients that are helpful when your dog is feeling stress from things like separation or loud noises. - Calming Music and White Noise
Calming music and white noise can help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs, especially during loud noises or separation. These sounds create a soothing atmosphere that promotes relaxation and calmness.There are even some ‘noise’ machines that don’t make noise–they use high-frequency subliminal sounds to help calm and comfort your dog. The Relaxo Pet is one such machine. - Pet Cameras and Monitoring Systems for Pet Parents
If you want to keep an eye on your dog when you’re gone, and help monitor their separation anxiety in the process, you can use something like a Furbo Treat Tossing Camera. You can talk to them, offer treats and keep an eye on them at the same time. While this isn’t necessarily a snuggle-up item like a stuffed animal or blanket, it can comfort your dog with the sound of your voice and a calming activity like taking a treat.You can’t be with your dog all of the time, and even if you could, they’re bound to get stressed or nervous at some time or another. Making sure they have some comfort items they can trust can be an easy way to help them feel better. In the end, when our dogs feel less anxiety, so do we, so it’s a win-win!
