
Photo by Naomi Torres
Dear Ginger: Why do dogs prefer a new ball over a slightly older ball of the same make and model? ~ The Newer, the Better
Dear Newer: Not all dogs prefer a new ball, but I assume you are one who does. When it comes to new versus used balls, there are generally two types of dog consumer:
1. The dog who prefers a new ball may feel this way for a number of reasons. We all love to get a new present and then go crazy over it! Also, we dogs watch way too much t.v. with our families; unfortunately, some of the subliminal messages encouraging consumerism and an obsession with the new are getting into our heads.
2. Then there is the dog who prefers the slightly used ball. This is the dog who enjoys the smell of slobber, dirt, grass. To this type of dog, a used ball is like a finely aged wine. These pooches have put some work into getting their balls into the exact condition they want them (what people might call “gross”) and they love it!
Whether you prefer a new ball or a used model doesn’t matter. The most important thing is to chase it! ~ Ginger