Why Your Dog Loves to Carry Random Things
If you’ve ever watched a dog proudly parade through the house with a shoe, a stick, or even a TV remote in their mouth, you’re not alone.
Many dogs have a natural tendency to pick up and carry random objects, leaving owners both amused and puzzled.
While it might look like a quirky habit, this behavior actually has deep roots in instinct, psychology, and even love.
Ancestral Instincts at Play
Long before dogs became our companions, their wolf ancestors relied on their mouths for survival. Carrying prey back to the den, transporting food, and moving pups were all natural parts of life.
Even though modern dogs no longer need to haul food across the forest, the instinct remains. This “carry drive” explains why some dogs seem compelled to grab the nearest object during walks or playtime.
Exploring the World Through Their Mouths
For dogs, the mouth is what hands are to humans. Just as a child might reach out and touch everything, dogs investigate by picking things up.
Carrying objects can be a way of gathering information—textures, smells, and even tastes tell them more about their environment.
That’s why your pup may prefer carrying a stick they found in the park over the expensive toy you bought at the pet store.
Comfort and Security
Sometimes, dogs carry items not out of curiosity but for comfort. Many choose belongings that smell like their favorite person, such as slippers, socks, or a worn T-shirt.
This is more than mischievous stealing. It’s a way of keeping a sense of closeness. For anxious or lonely dogs, carrying these items can provide reassurance and reduce stress when their owner is away.
Play and Joy
Carrying things is also tied to play. Dogs are natural hunters and retrievers, and even if the object isn’t “prey,” holding it can be stimulating.
Some dogs proudly show off their finds, trotting around with their “trophy” as if they’ve achieved something remarkable. Owners often reinforce this by laughing, praising, or even chasing after them, turning it into a fun game.
Breed Tendencies
Not all dogs carry objects with the same enthusiasm. Retrievers, spaniels, and other hunting breeds were selectively bred to carry game gently in their mouths. It’s no surprise that many of these dogs instinctively love carrying sticks or toys.
On the other hand, breeds without this background may still carry things, but often with less persistence.
Final Thoughts
At the heart of it, when your dog carries random things, it’s often a way of communicating with you.
Whether they’re seeking attention, showing off, or simply enjoying the comfort of your scent, it’s part of how they express themselves. Far from being just a silly quirk, this habit offers insight into your dog’s instincts and emotions.
So the next time your pup prances through the living room with a shoe in their mouth, remember: they’re not just being mischievous. They’re connecting with their heritage, their environment, and with you.
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More by Rachel M.
