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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Science
Nicola Davis Science correspondent

‘Ball junkie’: some dogs show signs of addiction, study finds

Jack russell terrier playing with an old tennis ball outside
Some terriers showed addictive behaviour such as whining or not eating when their toy was inaccessible. Photograph: TommL/Getty Images

Whether it is a spaniel with an insatiable love for a ball or a flat-coat that cannot be without its squeaky bear, dogs can be very keen on their toys. Now researchers say some may even show signs of addiction.

While humans can take a host of activities to excess, from work to shopping, only gambling and internet gaming disorders are officially recognised as behavioural addictions, a main feature of which is repeating acts that are initially rewarding, even though they can result in longer-term harm.

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