Why Do Dogs Bring You Toys When You Get Home?
For pet parents, it’s sweet and reassuring to be greeted enthusiastically by your dog at the door. Each dog has their own greeting ritual, a welcome home that feels special and can really tug at the heart.
If your dog likes to bring you toys as soon as you walk in, you may wonder, “Why is my dog always bringing me a toy when I get home?”
Different dogs have different motivations for bringing you their favorite toy, but most of the time, it’s their way of showing affection and wanting to connect.
Key Takeaways
- Many dogs bring toys to the door because they are excited you are home and want to play.
- Some pups like to show off a favorite toy or turn greetings into a fun little game.
- Holding a toy can help very excitable dogs stay calmer and keep their mouth busy in a positive way.
- Each dog has their own unique greeting and learning what your dog’s style means can help to strengthen the bond between you two.
5 Reasons Dogs Bring You Toys When You Get Home
1. Your Dog Wants To Play
While you were busy at work or running errands, your dog was most likely snoozing the day away in their favorite bed.
When you come back, it’s one of the best parts of their day, and they’re excited to see their favorite person.
For some dogs, this excitement can stem from wanting some playtime with you, especially if you typically play with your dog as soon as you get home.
It doesn’t take very long for a dog to learn that your return home often means fun. When your dog brings you a toy, it’s their way of saying, “Want to play with me?”
Most pet parents provide their dogs with a variety of dog toys that engage them in different ways for physical and mental stimulation.
The toy your pup chooses to present to you may be a toy you use most often together, which can make it extra special to them. Some dogs may stay playful for much of the evening, while others will have a quick burst of energy when you first arrive home.
If you like this greeting behavior, keep on playing with them when you return home.
2. Your Dog Wants To Show Off Their Toy
Some dogs simply want to show off their favorite toy with no strings attached.
They may proudly carry their favorite toy, prance around in front of you in excitement, and then retreat whenever you reach for it.
These dogs may have learned that holding a toy in their mouth gets them extra smiles, praise, and attention from their pet parent, and they enjoy that interaction.
It could also be that some dogs think of this like a lighthearted game of keep-away. No matter what the exact reason is, your dog is wanting to share a special moment with you.
Continue to respond with gentle praise, belly rubs, or some cuddle time to help strengthen that bond.
3. Your Excitable Dog Needs a Distraction
For dogs that exhibit a lot of excitable behavior, such as barking or nipping when someone comes through the door, you may encourage them to go get a toy to redirect that big burst of energy.
Or you may give your dog a toy as soon as you step through the door to keep your dog’s mouth busy.
This approach can be a helpful strategy for dogs who get excited at greetings, since it’s harder for them to bark and nip when they’re focused on carrying a toy.
After numerous repetitions, a dog can learn to grab a dog toy right away when they hear their pet parent at the door.
Instead of asking an excited dog to stay still in a moment that is exciting to them, we can give them a different, more appropriate outlet for their energy.
4. Your Dog Is Giving You a “Gift”
Dogs are social animals, and for some, sharing or offering you their favorite toy can be a signal that they enjoy your company and want to interact.
Some dogs may be protective of certain toys, so when they bring you their favorite stuffed animal, it can be a signal that they feel safe and comfortable with you.
You can gently acknowledge this by offering praise and dedicated time with them as soon as you’re home.
5. Your Dog’s Toy Feels Comforting
Just like some children will often carry around a security blanket, some dogs find comfort in carrying their favorite toy.
Your dog may simply feel more secure and confident by keeping their favorite toy in their mouth, so make sure they have plenty of plush dog toys to choose from.
From a simple tail wag to offering their favorite toy, every dog has their own greeting style.
Learning why your dog brings you their favorite toy when you come home can help you appreciate this behavior and deepen your bond, making each homecoming a special moment you both can enjoy.
