Did you know dogs can see color? Dogs see the colors blue, yellow and some shades of green. Dogs see these colors the same way a color-blind person sees. To keep your pet happy and healthy, it is important to stimulate all of your dog’s senses. Choosing play things intended to stimulate one or more of your dogs senses will encourage your dog to play with whatever you’ve offered him/her. It’s frustrating when you spend a small fortune at the local pet store only to discover later the toy you thought was super-neat is completely boring to your dog.
For example, when I pick out toys for my two dogs, Sadie and Rusty, I keep in mind the five senses. The five senses include: sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. My experience has shown me that most dogs prefer toys to tantalize at least two of these senses.
Sadie and Rusty love toys they can both see and hear. If they can see their toy, they have an easier time chasing it and if their toy squeaks when they chomp down on it, then it’s even better. For example, my two pooches love chasing after their Rumble Ring. They can see it, smell it, it squeaks and they love the texture of it in their mouth. Like infants dogs experience the world though their mouths, give them something safe and exciting. Then hopefully your favorite slippers will get taken off the menu.
I found your blog so interesting! I always thought that dogs could only see black and white. My husband and I were just talking about this the other day. We have two rotties, Roxy and Dakota. Whenever a holiday comes around or just a special day (with them everday is special!) we go to the pet stores and try to pick out the best presents for them. I always wondered why they picked particular toys over others and your explanation makes me understand now! Do you have any particular toys you find your dogs enjoy?
-Laura
Laura, thank you for the comment. I’m glad you asked about the toys. My two dogs Rusty and Sadie love their Rumble Ring. Color, sound, texture, and other factors are all important to a dog.