It is not surprising to see your dog performing the act of rolling on his toys, especially on the NEW toys that you are getting for him.
He does it for the following REASONS.
Your dog is claiming his ownership over the toys when he rolls on them. He is exhibiting his possessive instinct and considers these toys as his property. He is rolling over the toys to relieve his back itchiness or is trying to get your attention. He likes the scent of the toys and is trying to feel their texture.
He Is Claiming Ownership Over The Toys
Just like your dog will pee on a certain spot to claim his territory, by rolling over his new toys, he is attempting to leave his scent on these toys to assert his right to them.
He is considering these toys as his property and claiming his ownership of them.
That explains why, when you buy a new toy for your dog, the first thing he will do when he gets hold of it is to roll on the toy.
This action is to assert his claim of ownership over it.
He Is Exhibiting His Possessive Instinct
When your dog rolls over the toys, it is also an indication of how much dominance he has over these toys.
It shows that he considers these toys HIS belongings and not yours.
He is asserting his possessive instinct over the toys.
You will likely face some “resistance” when you attempt to take back the toys from him.
He is going to react aggressively, as if you were an intruder attempting to snatch away his belongings.
You will have to start teaching your dog that everything he owns comes from you, and you are the owner.
He has to accept that he is ONLY allowed to play with these toys for his pleasure and not for his possession.
This can be done by making him see you as his pack leader.
He Is Trying To Relieve Itchiness
If your dog is constantly scratching his coating, he may be attempting to ease his itchiness.
You would also likely see him rolling over some objects such as his toys to ease the discomfort on his back since he can’t possibly scratch his back.
So, keep a lookout for any skin disorder that may lead to his discomfort and ensure that it is treated.
Some common skin disorders that cause itchiness could be:
Demodectic Mange: This is caused by an infestation of Demodex mites and will appear as red patches on the skin.
Ringworm: This is a fungal infection that starts as small red spots on the skin, which then turn into painful open sores.
Follicular Eczema: Inflammation of the hair follicles results in this skin condition.
Pyoderma: Known as “pus in the skin,” pyoderma is often found in dogs, and can be caused by bacterial infection of the skin or inflammation.
He Is Asking You To Play With Him
Your dog is getting his new toys, and he is feeling excited and wants you to play with him.
By rolling over his toys, he is trying to get your attention and asking you to play a game with him with his toys.
He is telling you, “please play with me, and teach me how to play the toy!”.
If you are not giving him the time or the attention he is asking for, he will start to feel sad and lonely and that’s when he will start to whine.
He Likes The Scent Of The New Toy
Dogs have a habit of rolling over to anything that they like.
That is why you will see your dog rolling in dead animals, poop or mud as he finds these scents to be appealing to him.
So, if your dog likes the new scent of the toy, he will do a little roll-over and lick it all over.
It may seem like a fun thing for your dog to do.
However, if you notice that he rolls over to this toy more than others, then you need to take note of it.
This could be a sign that he is doing so because he is trying to get at something inside the toy.
So, make sure that the toys that you are giving your dog are safe for him to chew and play with.
He Is Trying To Feel The Texture Of The Toy
Dogs, unlike humans, are not able to feel the texture of the toys using their paws. They do it by either chewing the toys or rolling over them with their body.
Rolling over an object can provide them with a unique tactile experience. The texture of an object against their fur can be enjoyable, especially if the object has an interesting surface.
Different textures can elicit different sensations, ranging from a gentle massage-like feeling to a tickling sensation.
This is why you may find dogs like rolling on their toys, things, and treats to stimulate their senses and engage in physical play.
If you are keen to know more on why your dog is rolling on worms, this post will be an eye opening for you!
Communicating with Other Dogs
Rolling on their toys, treats, and bones also helps dogs communicate with other dogs. Through these scent markings, dogs can convey information such as their presence, status, and reproductive readiness.
Other dogs within the premise can pick up on these scents and gather important information about the dog that left the markings.
It’s a way for dogs to establish boundaries and assert their presence.
Stress Relief
Rolling on toys and treats can also be a way for dogs to relieve stress and anxiety. This behavior triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers.
As they roll, dogs may experience a sense of calmness and contentment, helping them to unwind and relax.
Playful Behavior
Rolling on objects can also be a manifestation of a dog’s playful nature. Dogs naturally enjoy exploring and interacting with their surroundings.
Rolling on their toys, things, and treats can be a way for them to have fun and express their joy. It is not uncommon to see dogs rolling around on the grass or carpet, exhibiting playfulness and pure delight.
Conclusion
The rolling ritual of dogs when it comes to their toys and treats stems from a combination of instinctual behaviors.
It serves as a way for them to mark their territory and preserve their scent, ensuring a sense of ownership and security.
Additionally, rolling on objects can be a form of play and entertainment, allowing dogs to engage their natural instincts and have fun.
Moreover, dogs may roll on their belongings as a means of relaxation and comfort, finding solace in the familiar scents and textures.
By understanding the reasons behind this behavior, you can gain deeper insights into your furry friends’ needs and preferences.