Fun isn’t the only reason sticks have captured dogs’ hearts.
Of course, if your dog says it is never without a stick, there are some details you should know and pay attention to.
Instinctive movements inherited from their ancestors.
In the pre-domesticated origins of dogs, stick-like objects were actually important tools they used to capture prey and test their tooth strength. For example, they had to access their food by breaking bones, and this improved their ability to break hard structures with their strong jaw muscles.
Sticks, on the other hand, function as “artificial prey” that satisfies dogs’ instinctive quest in nature, thanks to their hardness and durability. Therefore, we can say that the dog that likes to bite a stick is actually “returning to its roots”.
Another reason is related to the dental health and mental satisfaction of dogs.
Chewing on sticks is a very relaxing action for dogs. In this way, they can clean their teeth and keep their gums healthier.
Another reason for their love is that it creates a pleasant feeling when they chew. We also know how good dogs can smell. The scents emanating from the wooden sticks also help them relax.
The social aspect of dogs’ love for sticks should not be ignored.
Finding and fetching sticks may be one of dogs’ favorite games. In this way, his bond with you becomes stronger. When we think about how social animals they are, they actually communicate effectively and turn the prey into a toy, thanks to their instinct to bring you prey.
How safe is it?
Of course, not every stick is safe; Choosing sticks from hard, non-brittle, non-poisonous trees is best for their health. Sticks that do not have these features may cut your dog’s mouth with splinters, causing injuries and danger of choking.
In addition, intestinal obstruction and infections are also possible problems. That’s why you need to be careful about the stick you choose while playing with your dog.
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