NY Pug Gets Emotional Seeing Her Beloved Long-Lost Toy Again
If you’ve ever had a dog, you probably know this already: every pup has that one special toy, the one they carry around, sleep with, and sometimes even guard like it’s their life.
Sure, they might play with a dozen different toys, but there’s always that one favorite. No matter how many new ones you buy, they always come back to it.
In our house, that toy is a big yellow squeaky rubber duck. It’s been chewed, slobbered on, tugged, and fought over endlessly.
Two of my dogs are constantly battling for it, one throws it in the air, and the other steals it mid-flight. It’s basically the crown jewel of the toy box.
But the story I really want to share is about a little Pug named Pretzel and her one true love: Gumby.
Pretzel isn’t just any dog, she’s a tiny princess. Born late last year, she’s been living the royal life ever since she arrived at her forever home.
Her mom spoils her with treats (especially when that chubby puppy belly is on full display), lots of cuddles, and, of course, tons of toys.
Yet despite all the squeaky plushies and bouncy balls, there’s one toy that stands out from the rest: a soft, squeaky, green Gumby doll. Yes, that Gumby. Pretzel is absolutely obsessed.
You’d think being the favorite toy would give Gumby special privileges, like avoiding getting torn to shreds. But nope. Like most dog toys, he’s been through the wringer. Still, Pretzel loves him just the same.
The other day, after being apart from Gumby for a while (we’re not sure if he was lost or hiding under the couch), Pretzel finally saw him again. The moment she laid eyes on him? Instant tears.
Real puppy tears. You could see it in her little face, she missed him so much. Honestly, I almost started crying, too.
It was the reunion of the century! You’d have thought they were long-lost soulmates.
Thankfully, her mom had already ordered a replacement, and hopefully a few backups, because when it comes to true love, you can never be too prepared.
So how do dogs pick their favorite toys? Every dog owner wonders this at some point. Why do they get attached to that one special toy?
Here’s the deal: when dogs are still getting used to a new home, they explore the world with their noses, mouths, and paws.
Early on, you actually help shape the kind of toy they fall in love with. If you want them to love plush toys, offer plush toys. Tug ropes or squeaky balls? That’s what you give them.
Most dogs develop a preference for a certain texture or sound. Some love squishy, crinkly toys that squeak when they bite down. Others prefer tough rubber toys they can chew forever.
Big chewers, like German Shepherds and Malinois, usually go for the durable stuff. Snugglers, like Pretzel, often prefer soft plush toys they can cuddle with.
And Gumby? He checks all the boxes: soft, squeaky, perfectly sized for tiny paws, and just plain adorable. Pretzel and Gumby are a perfect match. And honestly, we could all use a love like that.
