A team of researchers has published the results of their latest study in the journal Nature Scientific Reports. The findings reveal that some often behave similarly to people suffering from behavioral addictions, such as gambling or video gaming.
The term “gaming addict” has long been used by trainers when discussing certain animal dependencies. However, researchers had previously overlooked the fact that dogs can exhibit signs of strong addiction. Professor Stephanie Reimer from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, the lead author of the study, shared this insight in an interview with Science Focus.
What Did the Researchers Discover?
The team involved 105 dogs of various breeds that were obsessed with toys and conducted a series of tests with them. aimed to understand how the dogs interacted with their toys when presented with two other strong motivators—food and their owner’s attention.
Initially, participants were allowed to choose a toy of their liking: a ball, a stuffed animal, or a tug rope. The dogs favored the ball, with 45 of them opting for it.
During one of the tests, researchers observed some participants trembling, , and showing indifference to food, reminiscent of behaviors seen in people with addictions, such as gambling. Overall, the scientists identified signs of addiction in 33 dogs. These animals focused intently on a ball hidden in a closed box, persistently trying to retrieve it, even when their owners offered them treats or playtime.
“Two dogs even managed to destroy the box, demonstrating the incredible strength of their motivation. This was a striking example of what some dogs are willing to do for the object of their desire,” noted study leader Alia Mazzini from the University of Bern.
During the final test, when the researchers removed the toys from the room, some animals were unable to calm down. Even after 15 minutes, their heart rates remained elevated.
However, when the dogs were allowed to play freely with the toys, researchers did not observe any significant mood differences between those prone to toy addiction and other furry participants.
How to Handle a “Ball Addict”?
Scientists explained that this type of addiction primarily reflects the natural instincts of a hunter chasing and capturing prey.
“While most dogs enjoy playing with toys, only a few develop an excessive fixation on them. Similarly, many people engage in potentially addictive activities, such as gambling, but only a small number develop a true addiction,” Mazzini drew a parallel. According to the researchers, these findings do not mean that you should immediately dispose of your dog’s toys.
Meanwhile, Reimer advised owners to focus on interactive play with their pets. This will help shift the dog’s attention from the object of potential addiction to other activities.
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