Why Do Dogs Love Socks?

1 Overview

The good of socks

Human foot sweat glands are few, but in a closed space the sock becomes their ‘coat.’

After a day or several, that ‘coat’ gives off odd smells – but to the dog, not odd: it’s the owner’s scent.

When the dog steals socks, it’s trying to keep the owner’s scent close.

So there’s a reason to steal socks?

Clearly, keeping your scent near is a good reason – but why does it? Anxiety? Loneliness? Boredom? Find the cause to fix it; stealing socks is risky.

Separation anxiety

Believe it or not, home alone, the dog keeps thinking of you.

Some handle it; some can’t, developing separation anxiety. Anxious dogs love stealing the owner’s clothes, socks, even destroying them.

Boredom

Bored, what do you do? Sleep is a good choice.

But dogs, when bored, vent excess energy – socks, clothes, shoes are perfect outlets; socks especially, tough and stretchy, and they taste like you.

Material

Right, the sock’s material attracts the dog.

Each dog likes different toys and materials, so finding the right one costs effort and money. If yours likes socks, get tough, stretchy toys fast.

So, can socks be a toy?

Of course not – every year dogs die from swallowed socks. The fabric tears easily; even if not wholly swallowed, the polyester/cotton bits inside are dangerous.

So the answer is simple: stash your socks where it can’t reach.