A couple days ago a guy at the park had a laser pointer and found out that my dog goes berserk over them. I got a cheap one and played with her at the park the last two days, but I swear it's like drugs to this dog. I've clicked her for doing something and she won't eat her treat if she thinks the laser is out. These are treats she goes nuts for usually too. When the laser is gone, she gets kind of sad and sniffs around looking for it for a little while. The guy at the park was using it like a target stick in training his dog to do things, and I've been considering it, but I don't want to do it if it's dangerous/going to drive my dog insane. She doesn't act "normal" - is it just her "new favorite thing" and harmless (I NEVER SHINE IT NEAR HER EYES) or should I put it away for good?
Any constructive input - especially with reasons - is welcome. Thanks!
2007-07-18 14:46:06 · 9 answers · asked by a gal and her dog 6 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Those things should be baned for dogs. They drive them nuts and then the dogs can start to constantly look for them too. It can cause real problems with your dogs behavior. Throw it out and never expose her to that again..
2007-07-18 14:51:12 · answer #1 · answered by ♥Golden gal♥ 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Take note of Coley's excellent reply. I've seen too many dogs in rescue whose lives have been ruined by laser pointers. They have developed OCD to the point where their entire life revolves around light and shadow to the exclusion of everything else. Most of these dogs had to be euthanised. The laser pointer causes the dog's prey drive to kick in but since they are never rewarded by being able to catch their prey they live a life of frustration and obsession. Don't ever 'play' with your dog with a laser pointer.
2016-05-17 05:34:12 · answer #2 · answered by linda 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dogs can and some do have addictive personalities. This is usually a symptom of a much bigger problem. Those with addictions (things like chewing, chasing, barking) become obsessed and fixated at a certain point. You can physically see when they "snap" into fixation. The ears perk up, the body tenses, the eyes focus and the pupils dilate. This is where you need to step in and physically redirect her attention. Some dogs will become so obsessed with something that they will literally drive themselves nuts over it. They will stop eating, they will pace and whimper. If she gets to this point you need to seriously redirect her. But if in the meantime she enjoys chasing it and playing, I don't see the harm in it. Just don't let her get obsessed about the laser!
2007-07-18 15:14:07 · answer #3 · answered by cms121979 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Pets love these laser toys, however, the only way they will harm your dog is if they are shined in his eyes over a period of time. Your dog will eventually get used to it, and even get tired of it. Yes, dogs do have very addictive personalities, which is why they grow so close and loyal to their owners. It would be a good idea to train your dog with the laser if you feel you want to! If you like it entertaining your dog, just keep it out and keep playing with it.
2007-07-18 14:54:30 · answer #4 · answered by Abbey 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I've read articles about the subject and I read that they are bad for the dog. The main reason given was that the dog is chasing something that has no scent or sound which are 2 of the dogs strongest senses. It indicated that many dogs have "lost their minds" and suffer from anxiety and chasing light and shadow.
I'm sure there are dogs that are not harmed by it, but I decided not to take the chance.
2007-07-18 15:53:09 · answer #5 · answered by karla t 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
the same thing almost happened with us. my brother bought a laser and has been shining it around. i have a one year old beagle and he goes crazy for it. my brother pointed it on my knee and he panicked thinking it was hurting me in some way. after he stopped shining it he was looking for it aswell. like other people here siad dogs can get addicted to things. just dont shine it on its eyes. i think ill try using our laser for training purposes though. i want my beagle to do cool tricks.
2007-07-18 15:22:06 · answer #6 · answered by cherrysnowcone08 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
your dog will probably cahse any light around. Lasers can be harmful if shined in the eyes. Try weening her to a flashlight.
2007-07-18 14:51:24 · answer #7 · answered by fangtaiyang 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have heard of dogs going "crazy" because of these stupid laser pointers. THey will start chasing shadows and light. It is a bad idea. I would never let my pets see one.
2007-07-18 14:50:50 · answer #8 · answered by Shadelight 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
As long as you never shine it in her eyes, it's fine.
2007-07-18 14:50:13 · answer #9 · answered by ? 7 · 1⤊ 2⤋