Why Do Dogs Scratch Their Beds? Is This Normal?
Photo by Chewy
Q: Sometimes my dog paws at his bed like he’s digging for buried treasure. He also does this with blankets and the couch cushions. Why do dogs scratch their beds instead of just settling down for a snooze? Is this normal?
A: Yes, it’s normal for dogs to scratch their beds or other soft spots where they sleep. This instinctual habit usually kicks in when your dog is trying to create a comfy spot to snooze. It might involve pawing, circling, or burrowing behavior, and it’s usually no cause for concern.
We spoke with a certified dog behaviorist and a veterinarian to learn more about this behavior.
Key Takeaways
- Scratching the bed is usually normal behavior and helps dogs get comfortable before resting—much like fluffing a pillow.
- Dogs may dig to regulate temperature, trying to cool off or warm up based on instinct.
- Bed scratching can mark territory, since scent glands in a dog’s paws help claim a favorite spot.
- Playfulness—especially in puppies—often drives digging, and it’s typically harmless fun.
- Excessive or destructive scratching may signal boredom or anxiety, so more exercise, enrichment, or a vet check may help.
Why Do Dogs Scratch Their Beds?
Dogs dig in their bed for several different reasons. Here are some of the most common explanations.
They’re Getting Comfortable
Your dog wants to be cozy when they lie down to rest, so they might scratch their bed for comfort, says Amanda Modes, DVM, a veterinarian at VetMind and American College of Veterinary Behaviorists resident.
Think of it as the canine equivalent of fluffing up a pillow.
Give them a headstart with the perfect bed to settle into, like the Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Cat & Dog Bed or the Bedsure Orthopedic Bolster Dog Sofa Bed with Removable Cover.
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They Want to Stay Cool or Get Warm
On an especially hot or cold day, your dog might give extra attention to their bedding before flopping down to rest.
That’s because they might be trying to dig for “temperature control,” says Brian Collins, DVM, a veterinarian at the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center in Ithaca, New York.
For instance, dogs have an instinct to dig down in the dirt to expose cooler soil when the weather is warm. And they also have an instinct to burrow into the earth when the weather’s hot.
Even if your dog isn’t making their bed outside like their wild ancestors, this instinct can cause them to paw at their bedding before settling down.
Make things easy for them to helping them cool down with an allforpaws Chill Out Orange Cooling Mat Dog Bed in summer or a K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Dog Crate Padin winter.
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They’re Marking Their Territory
Your dog might dig at their bed as a clear message that this cozy spot has their name written all over it.
“Dogs have glands on their feet which will leave a scent that will tell other dogs that the bed belongs to them,” says Dr. Modes.
If your pup has four-legged siblings, don’t be surprised if they dig at their favorite spot to “reserve” it.
To keep the peace, make sure each of your dogs has a bed that’s just the right size, whether it’s tiny enough for a Chihuahua, like the Precious Tails Vegan Leather Deep Dish Covered Cat & Dog Bed, or big enough for a Mastiff, like the Frisco Plush Orthopedic Pillowtop Dog Bed w/Removable Cover.
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They’re Playing
A happy, playful dog will sometimes dig at his bed—just for fun.
Digging at bedding is especially common for puppies, who are “learning their environment through play,” says Dr. Modes. So if your puppy’s zoomies include a quick scratch at their bed, don’t be surprised.
If they’re digging at something they shouldn’t be—like your sofa cushions—you can try to redirect some of that energy to playtime. Try the GoDog Dragons Chew Guard Squeaky Plush Dog Toy or the Multipet Loofa Dog The Original Squeaky Plush Dog Toy.
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Should You Worry If Your Dog Scratches Their Bed?
In most cases, there’s no cause for concern if your dog scratches their bed.
“Generally, this is considered a normal, healthy, species-typical behavior that appears innate or instinctual and should not be corrected,” says Dr. Modes.
However, some dogs may dig at their beds because of anxiety or boredom, Dr. Collins says, so make sure they’re getting enough exercise and have plenty of indoor activities to keep them entertained.
Interactive toys can be a great fix to keep your dog’s mind active and engaged.
Try the Woof Party Pupsicle Treat Dispensing Dog Toy, the Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Brick Puzzle Game Dog Toy, or the KONG Classic Dog Toy.
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If your dog still seems bored or is still digging in a destructive way, it’s time to ask your vet for advice.
FAQs About Why Dogs Scratch Their Beds
Why do puppies dig in their beds?
Just like adult dogs, puppies will often dig in their beds out of instinct. Restlessness stemming from boredom or teething can also make puppies scratch at their bedding.
What is it called when dogs scratch their beds?
While some people just call it scratching or digging, it may also be called nesting or denning.
Should I let my dog scratch their bed?
Yes. When your dog scratches their bed, they’re often fulfilling a natural desire to get cozy. It’s an innate behavior that your dog will use to feel comfortable and secure throughout their life. If it becomes obsessive or destructive, talk to your veterinarian.
How do I get my dog to stop scratching their bed?
In most cases, brief scratching is normal, so there’s no need to stop your dog from digging at their bed. But if you feel the behavior has become unhealthy, you can try to redirect it with positive reinforcement, like toys or treats, and chat with your veterinarian for advice.
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