If you’re a dog owner, you may have noticed your furry friend engaging in a peculiar behaviour: scratching at their bed before settling down to rest. While this may seem harmless, it can be frustrating if it leads to damaged bedding or disturbed sleep.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why dogs scratch at their beds and how to stop it if need be. Additionally, we’ll highlight some dog beds that may help alleviate this behaviour, including making sure our dogs have quality beds like Sash Dog beds to sleep on.
Why do dogs scratch at their beds?
Dogs scratch at their beds because it’s a relic of a time when they had to dig holes in the ground to sleep in. Today they scratch at beds instinctively, to make themselves comfortable, to cool down, to “nest” or just because digging is fun!
Let’s take a closer look at each of these reasons:
- Instinct: Scratching is a natural behaviour for dogs, as they have evolved to dig and create comfortable resting spots in the wild. This instinct may carry over to their domesticated lives, leading them to scratch at their beds before settling down.
- Temperature regulation: Dogs may scratch at their beds to create a cooler or warmer spot to sleep. By digging down into the bedding, they can expose cooler or warmer layers of material, depending on their needs. One of the main reasons that dogs “thermo-regulate” is called conduction. This means when they dig into the cooler earth, some of their own body heat dissipates into the earth. Likewise, if it’s cold, digging a hollow spot acts as insulation.
- Nesting instinct: Some dogs may scratch at their beds to create a cosy “nest” for themselves. This behaviour is more common in breeds that were historically used for hunting or digging, such as terriers. Pregnant dogs will also typically dig in their whelping boxes when it’s nearly time for them to give birth.
- Anxiety or stress: Dogs may scratch at their beds as a coping mechanism for anxiety or stress. This behaviour may be more common in dogs who suffer from separation anxiety or who are dealing with other stressful situations.
- Digging for fun: it’s no secret that some dogs can amuse themselves endlessly by destroying something. Usually this means chewing, but digging can also be a great form of entertainment. Feeling something flip and sending stuffing flying everywhere is a bored dog’s idea of a great time.
How to stop dogs from scratching at their beds
If your dog’s scratching behaviour is causing problems such as damaged furniture, there are several ways to address it. Here are a few tips to prevent problem behaviour like digging:
- Provide adequate exercise: One of the best ways to alleviate anxiety and stress in dogs is to provide regular exercise. Make sure your dog is getting enough physical activity each day to tire them out and reduce their need to scratch at their bed. If you can’t seem to keep up with their energy levels, enlist the help of a Dog Walker or Doggy Daycare to help expel their energy.
- Invest in a comfortable bed: Dogs may scratch at their beds if they’re uncomfortable or don’t provide enough support. Invest in a high-quality dog bed that offers ample cushioning and support. Look for a bed that has maximum padding, like the range of Sash Beds. They provide a place of calm and comfort for your dog to snooze in peace. You can read more in our article on why SASH beds are highly recommended.
- Have your dog checked out by a vet: Never rule out underlying pain or discomfort as a reason why your dog may be restless at night and scratching at their bed. Dogs with arthritis or other physical issues may be scratching out of frustration as lying down may cause them pain. This is especially true if your dog seems restless at night.
- Offer distractions: If your dog scratches at their bed out of boredom or anxiety, offer them distractions to take their mind off of it. This could include puzzle toys, chew toys, or interactive games.
- Practice positive reinforcement: Whenever your dog settles down on their bed without scratching, offer them praise and treats. This will reinforce the behaviour you want to see and encourage them to continue to rest peacefully.
The importance of the right bed for your dog to help reduce scratching
If you’re in the market for a new dog bed, consider the SASH calming dog bed. The calming dog bed is designed to reduce anxiety and stress in dogs by providing a cosy, secure spot to rest.
Another benefit is that the beds provide a natural hollow that mimics the hollow a dog would dig for themselves in the earth. For many dogs, this is enough to discourage the need to dig their own hole to lie in.
You can read more in our article on how a calming dog bed works or see our breakdown on the best calming dog beds for your pooch.
Whatever you choose, make sure the bed is made from high quality materials and is plush and plump. Otherwise you may as well be asking them to sleep on the floor.
In conclusion, dogs do love to scratch their beds and this is perfectly normal behaviour. They do it mostly out of instinct to dig a place to sleep in and to get comfortable. Help your dog with any boredom or anxiety issues they may have if the digging and scratching in their beds become excessive. A quality bed can also be the answer to their prayers (and yours), giving them a more comfortable and settled sleep, reducing the need to scratch.
Need help to expel their excess energy, or give them some company when you’re busy?
Find a trusted local Dog Walker or Doggy Daycare to help wear them out!
