Familiar toys can play a meaningful role in improving long-term memory recall, especially in animals like dogs. Research shows that dogs can remember the names of specific toys for years, even after not seeing or playing with them for extended periods. In one study, dogs learned the names of 12 new toys in just one week, and after two years without exposure, they still recognized and retrieved many of those toys by name. This demonstrates that familiar objects, such as toys, can serve as strong memory cues that help trigger long-term recall[1].
The brain region called the hippocampus, which is important for memory formation in both humans and dogs, helps store these long-term associations. The strength of these memories can be influenced by how often the toys are used and the mental stimulation the animal receives. Dogs that engage in varied cognitive activities, including playing with named toys, tend to have better memory performance[1].
Beyond dogs, associative memory—the ability to link objects with experiences or emotions—is a key factor in memory retention. Familiar toys can create positive emotional associations, making it easier to remember them over time. This is why repetition, consistent cues, and emotional significance are important in imprinting memories that last[3].
In humans, familiar objects and routines also help improve memory recall by providing context and emotional connections. While the exact mechanisms may differ, the principle that familiar items aid memory applies broadly across species.
Sources
https://www.petscare.com/news/post/dogs-remember-toy-names-long-term
https://www.dogster.com/dog-health-care/how-good-is-a-dogs-memory
https://www.petscare.com/news/faq/can-dogs-remember-yesterday
