Why Do Dogs Dig on Beds and Couches

Have you ever walked into your bedroom or living room only to find your dog enthusiastically digging away at your bed or couch as if they were trying to find a hidden treasure? If you’ve been asking yourself, “Why do dogs dig on beds and couches?” you’re not alone. Many pet owners are puzzled by this common behaviour, which can be both frustrating and perplexing.

By understanding why dogs dig on beds and couches, you can better address their needs, reduce damage to your furniture, and strengthen your bond with your furry friend. In this article, we’ll explore the most common reasons for this behaviour and provide practical tips to manage and redirect it effectively.

Why Do Dogs Dig on Beds and Couches?

1. To Create a Comfortable Resting Spot: One of the primary reasons dogs dig on beds and couches is to create a comfortable place to rest. Just like their wild ancestors, dogs have an instinctual need to “nest” before settling down. In the wild, wolves and a few other animals dig to soften the ground, remove debris, or create a cosy, secure area to rest. For your dog, scratching or digging on furniture is their way of arranging the “bedding” to their liking, just like how we fluff pillows or adjust blankets for comfort.
2. To Cool Down or Warm Up: Dogs might dig to help regulate their body temperature. In hotter climates, wild canines dig to expose cooler earth under the surface, providing a more comfortable resting spot. Similarly, a dog digging on a couch or bed might be trying to adjust the surface to either cool down or warm up, depending on their needs. If your dog tends to dig more on hot days or colder nights, they may be looking for a way to make their resting spot more suitable for their current comfort level.
3. To Relieve Stress or Anxiety: For some dogs, digging on beds and couches can be a way to ease their stress. This behaviour can be a self-soothing mechanism, helping them cope with feelings of unease, boredom, or fear. If your dog tends to dig excessively after a stressful event, it might be their way of dealing with anxiety. Ensuring that your dog has a calm and safe environment can help reduce this type of stress-related digging.
4. To Release Pent-Up Energy: Dogs are naturally energetic and curious creatures. When they don’t get enough physical exercise or mental stimulation, they might resort to many relatively unusual behaviours, such as howling while sleeping and digging in furniture as a way to burn off excess energy. This can be particularly common in high-energy breeds or younger dogs who need more playtime and interactive activities. Providing plenty of exercise, engaging toys, and activities can help redirect their energy into more appropriate outlets and reduce unwanted digging.
5. To Get Your Attention: Sometimes, dogs dig on beds and couches simply because it works —they get your attention. If your dog notices that digging leads to a response from you, even if it’s not positive, they may continue doing it to engage with you. Dogs thrive on interaction, and if they feel ignored, they may use digging as a way to get you to notice them. Recognizing this behaviour and not reinforcing it with attention is crucial to curbing it.
6. To Mark Their Territory: Digging can also be a way for dogs to mark their territory. Dogs have scent glands in their paws, and when they dig, they release their unique scent onto surfaces, especially beds and couches. This behaviour is their way of saying, “This is my space.” It’s more common in multi-pet households or when a dog feels insecure about their environment.
7. To Satisfy Maternal Instincts: For female dogs, especially those who are unspayed or experiencing a phantom pregnancy, digging can be linked to nesting instincts. They may dig into furniture to create a “den” where they feel safe and secure. This behaviour is usually harmless and can be managed by providing comfortable and designated nesting spots for them. Instead of letting them create one themselves, do it for them.

How to Manage and Redirect Digging Behaviour

While dogs dig on beds and couches naturally, it can sometimes become problematic, especially when it leads to damaged furniture or disrupts the household. The good news is that with a few adjustments and strategies, you can help manage this behaviour and redirect it to more acceptable outlets. Here are some effective ways to address and manage digging behaviour in your dog:

1. Give Them a Place to Dig: Dogs love to dig (on beds and couches) — it’s in their nature. Instead of trying to suppress this instinct, why not give them a place where they can dig to their satisfaction? Setting up a designated digging spot in your garden or backyard can work wonders. A sandbox filled with soft sand or soil can become their new favourite spot. You can make it more enticing by burying a few toys. This way, your dog has a fun and appropriate place to satisfy their digging urges, and your furniture stays safe. If you don’t have outdoor space, consider using a digging mat or a similar product designed for indoor use. It’s all about giving them an outlet for their instincts while keeping your home intact.
2. Make Their Bed the Best Spot in the House: If your dog keeps digging on your bed or couch, it might be because their own spot doesn’t feel quite as comfortable. Dogs are creatures of comfort, just like us! Placing their bed in a calm, quiet corner can also make a difference. However, remember, it’s not just about the softness; some dogs prefer a firmer surface, while others like a pile of blankets. It’s about finding what makes your dog feel right at home.
3. Teach Them with Positive Reinforcement: Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement. When they do something right, make sure they know it. If your dogs dig on beds and couches, scold them, too. Rewarding good behaviour with treats, affection, or playtime is much more effective than scolding. However, remember, patience is key here. Every dog learns at their own pace, and consistency is what turns new behaviours into habits. Celebrate the small wins and keep reinforcing the behaviour you want to see more of.
4. Lastly, Keep Them Busy and Engaged: Sometimes, a digging dog is a bored dog. If your furry friend isn’t getting enough mental and physical stimulation, they might resort to digging into your furniture out of sheer boredom. Keeping them busy with daily walks, interactive toys, or new challenges can help burn off excess energy. Also, don’t forget the importance of variety. Mix their routines with different activities. A tired dog is a happy dog — and one that’s far less likely to dig where they shouldn’t!

In conclusion, by tapping into your dog’s natural instincts and providing them with the right outlets, you can effectively manage their digging behaviour. More importantly, remember that every dog is different, and it may take some time to see changes, but with patience, consistency, and a little creativity, your dog can learn to enjoy more appropriate activities.