What is the reason dogs dig in their beds?

It is easy to imagine a dog digging outside, but what if your dog digging his bed? It’s not something we worry about unless it’s causing damage to our yard. It is an easy part of dogs being dogs.

What about dogs who like to dig in their beds? Their bed will likely be something we spend a lot of money on. It is common to spend a lot on pets. In 2020, the US will spend $99 billion. We won’t be able to do that without spending a few extra dollars on some luxury items.

Also, their bed is often displayed prominently in our homes. This means we are more likely to see dogs digging in their beds as a problem behavior than a normal part of being canine. We aren’t just curious when we ask, “Why do dogs dig in their bed?” We want to know the answers. We want answers. And, ideally, solutions. It helps to ask why dogs dig.

Dogs dig under your bed because of their instinctive need to find shelter. Here are some other reasons dogs dig in your bed:



 

It’s Territorial

Your furry bed-scratcher family member will mark your new bed as his territory.

Dogs have the same scent glands as other animals. These secrete a pheromone to let other animals know it’s their territory.

This is why they also lay down on your feet. They will scratch your bed and cover to make their beds more comfortable.

 You may like: English Shepherds vs Border Collie

Curiosity

You might also notice your dog digging under your covers or cushions. Dog owners often find this behavior frustrating. However, it could be that their dog has buried a toy or leftover food and is digging for it.

Body Temperature

Digging may be an option to provide a cooler or warmer place for your dog to rest if they are feeling hot or cold. Dogs may feel the instinct to dig into their resting places, which can be seen by them scratching at hard floors or pawing at their beds.


 

Anxiety

It could be an indication of anxiety if your dog is compulsive in digging or if he acts out of control. It might be worth talking to your vet, but you might also consider getting him a calming bed that will help him calm down.

 You may like: Why my dog pooping clear liquid?

Nesting Behavior

What causes dogs to scratch their beds? Your female dog might be digging in her bed due to nesting behavior, also known as “denning.”

Even though they aren’t pregnant, female dogs will instinctively build a nest. Wild female dogs will dig holes into the ground to allow their puppies to enter the nest. They’ll also raise them until they are old enough to leave.

 

Hide and seek

Your doggie will instinctively seek a safe area to hide from other animals. They will build a den, and even though they are no longer wild, it is possible for them to still seek out a safe place to hide.


 

Comfort

Dogs can dig in your bed to get the pillows fluffed up. They simply want to make their bed more comfortable. This is especially true for dogs suffering from arthritis or other types of pain.

You may like: Pitbull ear cropping aftercare

Exploration

Dogs love to follow their nose to some extent. Dogs often detect a scent above the ground that is interesting. It’s a good idea to do some digging to learn more. Your dog can create a better scent picture by shaking the ground. It could – joy of all joys! It might even be possible to locate the source of the smell.

 

What to do if your dog Digges in her bed?

Your dog may dig out of instinct, but this does not necessarily mean she is acting inappropriately. You may have to replace the bedding you provided for your dog, or her digging could damage the floors. As you try redirecting your dog’s behavior, remember that digging is instinctive.

You have the option of allowing your dog to sleep in your bed or if you can pay attention to your dog’s behavior. You can make a space where your dog can sleep comfortably and dig her way out. To create this area, you can use old blankets, rugs, or a dog bed. You can also use boxes and open crates.


 

How to stop a dog from digging into its bed?

Consider whether they should stop. If they normally dig his bed isn’t becoming unsafe or unusable, there is no need to stop.

 You may like: Can Acepromazine kill a dog?

Redirect Their Digging

Set up a dirt or sandbox for your children if you have enough space. You can encourage them to use it by giving them treats and toys to find. Alternatively, please encourage them to go on regular walks and dig in the places they like. You can choose to go to the beach, but you can also hike through the deciduous forest with lots and lots of leaf litter.

 

Snuffle Mats

Dogs who dig to find and discover information may get the same sensory and mental benefits from playing with a mat or snuffle. You can also use newspaper pages or magazines to make balls and fill a cardboard box. Give the entire thing a shake and sprinkle some treats or kibble meals. Then, hand it back.

You may like: Pitbull vs Bull Terrier comparison

Remove Leftover Food

Your dog may find their food under blankets and try to eat it.

 

Increase their activity

Different things will mean different things to different dogs. Your lab can exercise by running, swimming, and playing with a ball, frisbee, or walking. Dogs need more than just physical exercise. Lab dogs are intelligent and have a great ability to learn complex tasks.

If they are out hiking miles every day but seem restless at home, this could indicate that they need more mental stimulation. They can be engaged and stretched by scent work, puzzle toys, and gundog training, as well as training games and training games. Then they will settle down to bed and not flip the mattress.


 

Conclusion.

You may love your dog and want to share your bed but hate that your dog is constantly digging his bed. He is simply doing what his wild ancestors did to survive. If you look through his eyes, you will see that he views you as a family member and a valued part of the pack. He wants you to be someone he can snuggle up with. There are still reasons to make him feel at home in his bed.

Author

I’m a long-time animal lover and owner of two dogs and three cats. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior.

Write A Comment