Dogs often chew their toys on their owner’s lap for various reasons. It might be a sign of teething in puppies, a way to cope with boredom or anxiety, or a method of seeking attention and bonding with their favorite human. These actions are more than playful habits; they’re insights into what your dog may need or want from you at that moment.
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Dogs love to play, and toys are an essential part of the family fun. Sometimes it’s a mystery why a dog may choose to chew toys on their owners. Have you ever sat down to relax, only to notice that your dog brings a favorite toy to your lap and starts to chew?
Chew toys are not just a play area for your dog; they offer mental stimulation and bonding. The act of chewing is natural for dogs, and it’s a sign that your dog trusts you when he chooses to chew his toy on your lap.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why your dog chews toys on people, including you, and how to understand and manage this behavior.
Whether your dog wants to play, feels safe with you, or is trying to get your attention, we will unravel the mystery of why every dog seems to love sitting on your lap and chewing a toy.
Reasons Why Your Dog Chews
Understanding why a dog chews his toy is essential for a happy relationship with your dog. Here, we’ll explore various reasons dogs like to chew their toys, especially on their owner’s lap.
Teething
Puppies, just like human babies, go through a teething phase. During this time, your dog may chew everything in sight, including toys. Offering chew toys to your puppy gives them something safe to explore and soothe their gums.
Sometimes, puppies bring the toy to your lap to feel safe and secure while they navigate this uncomfortable phase.
Boredom
Boredom can lead to your dog chewing a toy on your lap. Dogs need mental stimulation, and chew toys provide that excitement.
If you notice that your dog often brings a toy to your lap to chew, maybe it’s a sign that your dog wants more interaction and playtime. Engaging in a few minutes of active play can help keep your dog entertained and satisfied.
Anxiety
Anxiety is another reason your dog may choose to chew toys on top of you. If a dog feels stressed or anxious, chewing can be a calming activity.
Sometimes dogs will seek their owner’s comfort by choosing to chew their toy on your lap. It’s a way for the dog to feel connected and secure.
Whether your dog is playing, teething, or seeking comfort, recognizing these cues allows you to respond appropriately and help your dog feel happy and content.
Chew Toys
Chew toys are more than just toys for dogs to play with. They are tools for mental stimulation and dental health. Dogs love attention, and dog chew toys can provide hours of fun. Here are some ways chew toys impact your pet:
- Bonding: When your dog brings a chew toy to your lap, it’s a chance to connect. It allows your dog to feel part of the family and shows that he trusts you.
- Health: Chew toys help keep your dog’s teeth clean and gums healthy.
- Engagement: Dogs love to play with their toys, especially ones they can chew. It helps them keep active and engaged.
Dog owners should have chew toys around for their furry friends, and it’s essential to understand that sometimes dogs bring the toy to your lap because they want their owner to be part of the fun.
Playing with your dog and allowing her to play with her toys on your lap can create special moments and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.
Why Dogs Chew Toys on You Specifically
Chewing toys on people, especially on their owner’s lap, is a behavior many dog owners observe. But why does this happen? Let’s explore some reasons why your dog wants to chew a toy on your lap.
Attention Seeking
Sometimes, your dog chewing his toy on your lap is about trying to get your attention. Dogs love attention, and what better way to get it than to invade your personal space with a favorite toy? Every time your dog tries to chew a toy on your lap, he might be signaling that he wants to play or simply spend time with you.
Bonding
Bonding is another reason dogs chew their toys on their owner’s lap. Your dog may see chewing a toy in your lap as a special time to connect. It’s a sign that your dog trusts you and feels safe. Dogs love to be close to their humans, and this is a unique way they can share something they enjoy with the one they love.
The time your dog chews a toy on your lap is more than just playtime. It’s a bonding experience that shows that he trusts you. Recognizing this behavior as a positive sign of your relationship with your dog will help you both enjoy these moments more.
How to Stop My Dog from Chewing on Me
Chewing toys on you isn’t always convenient, especially if your dog tries to invade your personal space while you’re busy. Here’s how you can train your dog to enjoy his toys without sitting on your lap.
Provide Alternatives
Make a designated play area for your dog with his favorite toys around. If your dog brings a toy to your lap to chew, gently redirect him to the play area. Reward him with treats when your dog begins to chew in the designated space, and he’ll learn to chew there instead of on your lap.
Training Techniques
Positive reinforcement is key in dog training. Every time your dog tries to chew a toy on your lap, guide him to the play area and reward him for chewing there.
Stopping your dog from chewing toys on your lap requires understanding, patience, and persistence. Remember, don’t punish your dog for chewing toys on you.
Professional Help
If your dog doesn’t respond to your efforts, don’t hesitate to seek professional dog training. Sometimes, a behavior can be more complex, and a professional can help your dog learn to chew in an appropriate place.
Conclusion
Owning a dog is a rewarding experience filled with love, trust, and companionship. When your dog comes to your lap and starts to chew his toy, it’s more than just a playful act. It’s a sign of trust, a bond that shows how close you are to your furry friend.
Understanding why dogs chew their toys, especially on their owner’s lap, helps build a stronger relationship. It’s about recognizing what your dog wants, whether it’s attention, playtime, or simply to feel safe and secure with you. From bonding and mental stimulation to training and understanding, there are many facets to this common behavior.
If you want to train your dog to keep the toy off your lap, remember to use positive reinforcement and patience. Allow your dog to feel safe and encourage play in a designated area without punishing your dog for a behavior that comes naturally.
Chew toys are tools for fun, health, and connection. Embrace them and enjoy the time you spend playing with your dog. The bond you create through play is a special one, making every dog not just a pet but a cherished part of the family.
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and if you found this article helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with other dog owners you know!
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I have golden retriever who loves to lay on my lap and chew her toys. I think she likes the attention she gets. Thank you for sharing!
Interesting read! My sweet pup does this. It doesn’t bother me, but it’s cool to understand why she does it! Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Great answer to a question I’ve always had. 🙂