Sox has three special teddies. They are (from left to right):

1. Cuddle Teddy
2. Play Teddy
3. Chewing Teddy

Cuddle Teddy is special. I found him in a giveaway box at a local op shop shortly after adopting Sox. Sox had plenty of toys, but all were hand-me-downs from previous dogs. I felt he needed his own teddy. Since then, Sox will gently mouth Cuddle Teddy and sleeps with him on the couch. He has never shown any inclination to tear or rip Cuddle Teddy and, when Cuddle Teddy gets grey from all the saliva and mouthing, I will give him a wash. This upsets Sox very much and he will throw Cuddle Teddy around in the hope of getting him to smell better.

Chewing Teddy, as the name suggests, is the teddy that is the target of Sox’s hunting skills. Chewing Teddy has been re-stuffed and gutted many times. Always a favourite, although he looks worse for wear.

Which brings me to Play Teddy. As Chewing Teddy was getting very worn, I decided it might be time to head to the op shop for a new toy. Play Teddy’s nose was ripped off immediately but, unlike Chewing Teddy, Play Teddy is largely staying in one piece. He gets played with most nights after dinner.

What makes Sox choose one toy over another? Why is Cuddle Teddy so precious? I have pondered these questions for some time.

Remembering that dogs have the sentience of a two-year old child, I think Cuddle Teddy came at a particularly important time in Sox’s life as a pet. A toy that did not smell of previous dogs and which he could make his own.

I read once that ‘familiarity brings security.’ When a nervous child starts school, for example, they may take a favoured toy with them for security. My working theory is that Cuddle Teddy is Sox’s version of a security blanket. (Although I will keep washing teddy when he is ‘ripe’ as he looks much better on the sofa without his fur sticking together and with a dingy grey colour.)

What’s the future for Chewing Teddy and Play Teddy? Who knows? That is for Sox to decide. The degree of control that we give our dogs is something called agency – and sentient creatures deserve the opportunity to have choice.

Sox continues to mature as a pet since being adopted in March 2022; but judging by the last 2+ years, Cuddle Teddy seems almost certain to go the distance.

Kathleen Crisley, Fear-Free certified professional and specialist in dog massage, rehabilitation and canine fitness,  The Balanced Dog, Christchurch, New Zealand.