Why do Dogs Dig Their Beds?

Have you ever wondered why dogs dig their beds?

If you have a dog, you’ve probably seen him doing this ritual before bed. Although it may seem like a strange behavior, don’t worry, it’s totally normal.

Throughout this content, we will explain some reasons that might make dogs dig their beds. Read on to find out!

Making the Bed

Just as we humans’ “fluff” our pillow, dogs dig their beds in order to make them more comfortable and cozier.

This behavior also often happens when dogs sleep in their owner’s bed or on the couch. You’ve probably noticed your dog digging into a pillow or rolling up a sheet.

Don’t worry, this behavior isn’t necessarily destructive, your puppy just wants to sleep and relax in a more comfortable environment.

Temperature Changes

Anyone who has a dog knows that they are very sensitive to temperature changes. Because of this, dogs may dig their beds in an attempt to keep it warm or cool it down.

This usually happens on colder days, as digging the bed is a common way for the dog to regulate body temperature and warm the place where he will lie down.

This type of behavior can also happen on warmer days, when your dog may dig in order to chill the sleeping area a little bit.

If you find your puppy digging in the bed, watch out for any sudden temperature changes and don’t forget to make his sleeping environment as comfortable as possible for your dog to have a good night’s sleep.

Marking Territory

Dogs don’t just urinate on something to mark their territory. Digging the bed before sleeping is also a way for them to do this.

Many don’t know, but your dog’s paw pads release a specific odor, easily recognized by other dogs, which indicates that the bed already has an owner.

Curiosity

Dogs love to sniff and investigate their environment. If they think there’s something interesting (like a toy, or a piece of treat) under a pillow or in the crevices of his bed, they’ll dig around to try to find what might be hiding there!

So, after offering a treat to your puppy, make sure you haven’t dropped it between the dog’s bed pillows. And make sure to keep his bed clean.

Long Nails

Although it is common for your dog to dig the bed before going to sleep, if you notice that he has been doing it compulsively, one of the causes could be that his nails are too long and causing discomfort.

This can happen to dogs that stay indoors for a long time or don’t walk often. Therefore, it is recommended to take frequent walks with your dog, as more rustic surfaces help to wear out the nails, keeping them at an adequate size.

Remember that you should also cut your puppy’s nails at least once a month.

Anxiety

Again, if you notice that digging the bed is becoming a compulsive behavior and that this is making your dog more agitated than relaxed, it could be a sign of anxiety. In these cases, we recommend visiting a veterinarian or canine behavior specialist as soon as possible.

Preventing Your Dog From Digging the Bed:

As much as seeing our puppies playing and digging makes us even more in love with them, if we don’t take some care, that new bed (or your new sheet or your couch) can be quickly destroyed.

To avoid these problems, it is important to observe some tips:

• Keep his Nails Trimmed: As we talked about above, frequent walks and monthly nail trims can go a long way in preserving not only your bed and sofa, but also furniture and wooden floors. Also, keeping the nails trimmed will prevent them from getting infected.

• Make up Other Games: Digging the bed can also be a sign of lack of stimulation and that your little friend may be bored. Make up new games, take him for a walk, or buy him some toys that can keep him busy.

• Try to use Quality Beds: Sometimes it may not be your dog’s fault that the bed was destroyed too quickly. Some cheaper, or lower quality beds may not offer the necessary resistance against daily scratches and digging. And a superior quality bed is usually more comfortable and prevents your puppy having to dig it every time he wants to take a nap.

Did you Like to Know Why Dogs Dig Their Beds?

We hope these tips can help you and your puppy get a better night’s sleep. Remember that digging should be a cute moment before bed, not the beginning of a restless night.

Dog Walker Astoria

A great way to contribute to your dog’s well-being and happiness is through socialization. If you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily socialization walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!

Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria!

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