Why do dogs have an absolute obsession with chewing on old rubber shoes or leather clothing items?

Question

My young dog ignores expensive plush pet toys but will spend hours destroying old leather boots or rubber sandals if left near the front door. What sensory attributes attract them?

CanineVet · Answer

Leather items contain natural animal hide proteins scents and textures that trigger a canine's instinctual predatory chewing desires. Soft rubber shoes retain high concentrations of their human owner's distinct sweat pheromones supplying an intense comforting sensory feedback to the dog.

Why do dogs have an absolute obsession with chewing on old rubber shoes or leather clothing items?

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