Dogs have many interesting, quirky behaviours that often leave us scratching our heads wondering “Why do they do that?” Have you ever wondered why your dog takes your shoes? Perhaps they greet you at the door wagging their tail, and grab a shoe, just to present it to you like some sort of prize. Perhaps they are a secret shoe thief, sneaking off with your favourite slipper just to chew them up time and time again. Why do they do this and what can you do about it?
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Teething Puppies
Growing puppies often seek out firm textures to chew on when teething to comfort their sore gums as their teeth grow in. Your shoes may have just the right texture to do the job for them, or so they think. Make sure all dogs, especially growing pups have access to safe toys of different textures to ensure they can play and soothe themselves without involving your favourite household items.
Dogs are active creatures that need active physical and mental stimulation. If their needs aren’t met, they can become quite mischievous and look for ways to entertain or comfort themselves.
Boredom
While often blamed, we need to think about what we mean by the term…
Physical boredom
Lack of physical stimulation/exercise can lead to excessive pent-up energy that often results in mischief.
Attention seeking.
With improper exercise, dogs seek attention, often by inciting mischief or getting into things they shouldn’t. Without an appropriate outlet, our pups can grab the nearest object to try to get a reaction from you in hopes of starting a fun game of chase. It may be that your pup has learnt which objects are more likely to get a reaction out of you. And so they purposely reach for your favourite shoes as they know you’ll leap to join in with the impending threat of dribble and damage to those new heels. Our pups can be intelligent mischiefs!
Looking to play/ start a game
It may be that it’s as simple as wanting to play. In the past, you’ve actively chased your pup when they’ve grabbed your shoes and so they remember that it was a super fun game and keep doing it! Why not, if it works, hey?!
Mental boredom
Lack of mental stimulation can lead to boredom. This is more likely if your pup hasn’t been properly exercised and therefore isn’t physically tired. Keeping your pup’s brain stimulated is important too. Consider puzzle games and puzzle feeders; these are great options once in a while if you haven’t time to get out for a proper walk or it’s horrid weather out. Some puzzle feeders are safe if you are busy and can’t give your pup direct attention at that time as they can use them to keep themselves busy.
Overstimulation
Sometimes our pups get overstimulated just like we do. Perhaps you’ve just arrived home from a long day in the office. Your pup will be super excited to see you and greet you. Sometimes not knowing what to do with their energy, they redirect that feeling by grabbing the nearest object. Often, by the door, that’s your shoes! Some breeds such as retrievers particularly are only happy with something in their mouths. Keep shoes up out of the way if you’re worried and perhaps keep a toy by the door to offer your pup on returning to the house so they have something to grab and carry. A little planning can get you a happy pup and correctly directed energy.
Anxiety
Some pups suffer from separation anxiety or anxiety in novel situations. Those pups may grab at your shoes as they have a familiar scent; they use them for comfort in your absence.
Solutions
- Ensure your pup has had plenty of exercise and got their energy out on a nice walk before expecting them to settle down and rest without causing mischief whilst you’re busy. Ensure regular exercise is part of your pup’s routine, you’ll be rewarded with a calmer, more content pup who is easier to live with and generally less mischievous.
- Consider puzzle feeders and puzzle games for mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise.
- Dedicate small breaks in your day to talk to or start a little game with your pup to engage with them. Even small interactions during a busy day can mean the world to your pup so don’t neglect them, chat away or initiate a quick game of tug toy.
- Ensure your pup has plenty of safe toys to direct their energy to and include those with different textures for pups who are teething to soothe those sore teeth as they grow in.
- If your pup is easily overstimulated, offer an appropriate toy for them to carry in times of excitement, and redirect their overzealous energy.
- If your pup suffers from anxiety, offer an appropriate “security blanket”, maybe an old jumper with your scent to snuggle up with if you have to pop out, or leave them with a safe treat puzzle to occupy them and take their mind off being alone for a time.
Rules
Why does your dog take your shoes?
Sometimes our dogs are mischievous and need some extra attention. Ensure they are regularly exercised, have enough toys, and have had enough cuddles. With our solutions and rules, you should have a more harmonious home to enjoy with your pup. If you’re ever worried about your pup’s behaviour or that they’ve gotten into something they shouldn’t have and could be at risk of becoming unwell, contact your veterinary surgeon for advice. And if all else fails, think about getting an appointment with a qualified clinical animal behaviourist!
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