Balls - why do they appeal to dogs so?

It is something I have always been interested in. Why balls interest dogs like they do! Its funny when you think about it. Balls. What is so amazing about them?? To us, they are just sometimes rubber objects that you chuck and they roll. But most dogs LOVE 'em! So why do dogs love balls - theres no magic trick!

Earl demonstrating that dogs love balls...

Ooo ball!

BALL! De de la de de la de de LAT TAT TAT! 

Yeap. I'm happy now thanks. But what about that fuzzy ball over THERE?!?

Yaya!!…!...

Is it the characteristic squeak some balls have? Is that why dogs run around squeaking a squeaky ball with no assistance, and not being shown how to?

Is it because they bounce? Is it because of the association between a ball, owner interaction and attention, running around in a great space, having fun… Ah! That sounds reasonable doesn't it! 

So could dogs come to love little pieces of scrunched up paper instead of balls, or wicker coasters instead of frisbees, as much as they do actual branded dog toys, with the right association? Not that we would give our dogs those objects for health and safety reasons entirely, but…?

So there is something to go and think about. Why dogs love balls so much. 

And why do we assume dogs love balls? Why do we go to the pet store and buy balls, even when you are a first time owner with only brief canine knowledge? is it just because they are THERE, or another reason why we choose balls? Do we just typically associate mans best friend with tennis ball? 

Do you know any dogs who DON'T like balls?

Wow, looking back on that post, there are a LOT of ball/dog-related questions to ponder! Spend time!

Earl and I.