It’s a behavior that puzzles many pet owners—your dog circles, scratches, and digs into their bed before lying down. Whether they’re pawing at the covers or rearranging the bedding, this habit is rooted in instincts that are deeply embedded in a dog’s evolutionary history.

While it can be frustrating, understanding why dogs dig in their beds can provide insights into their natural behavior and help owners find ways to manage it.

Instincts From the Past

The primary reason dogs dig in their beds is instinct. This behavior dates back to their wild ancestors. In the wild, dogs needed to create a comfortable and safe space to rest. Digging was a way to flatten out grass, leaves, or snow to create a nest that offered comfort and protection from predators.

This habit has been passed down through generations, even though domestic dogs no longer face the same survival challenges as their ancestors. According to Whole Dog Journal, the instinct to dig is linked to a dog’s desire to create a secure and comfortable sleeping space.

Temperature Regulation

Another reason for this digging behavior is temperature regulation. In the wild, dogs would dig to either cool down by reaching the cooler earth below or to create warmth by digging into a den. Even in modern homes, this instinct persists.

Some dogs dig at their bedding to adjust the temperature around them, making their sleeping area more comfortable. Adaptil reports that this is one of the key reasons dogs dig before settling down, noting that dogs may also circle before lying down to find the perfect position that helps them regulate their body temperature.

Marking Territory

Dogs also dig in their beds as a way to mark their territory. Their paws contain scent glands that release pheromones when they dig. This is why your dog may dig or scratch at their bed, especially if it’s new or freshly laundered. They’re essentially claiming the space as their own.

Outward Hound reports that dogs have a heightened sense of smell and will dig in places where they want to leave their mark, ensuring that other animals or pets recognize the space as theirs.

Comfort and Nesting Behavior

Dogs often dig in their beds as a way of ensuring maximum comfort. Just as humans fluff their pillows or adjust their blankets, dogs dig to rearrange their bedding to their liking. This behavior can be especially noticeable in older dogs or those with arthritis, as they may be trying to find a more comfortable position due to joint pain.

As WagWalking reports, some dogs, particularly females, also dig as part of a nesting instinct. This behavior, which is tied to their natural desire to create a safe, secure environment for potential puppies, can occur even in non-pregnant dogs.

Anxiety and Attention-Seeking

Sometimes, dogs dig as a response to anxiety or boredom. When dogs are stressed, they may dig in an attempt to self-soothe or alleviate anxiety. This is common in dogs that experience separation anxiety or have been left alone for long periods.

According to Adaptil, dogs may also dig to attract attention, knowing that their actions will prompt a response from their owners, whether it’s a laugh, a correction, or even a playful interaction.

Redirecting Digging Behavior

While digging is natural, it can sometimes be destructive, especially if your dog digs in places like your bed or furniture. Redirecting this behavior starts with providing a comfortable and secure place for your dog to dig.

Giving them their own bed, complete with familiar scents and toys, can help. Outward Hound recommends ensuring that your dog’s bed is comfortable and that it contains something familiar, such as a blanket or item with your scent, to encourage them to settle there instead of on your bed.

Understanding why your dog digs in their bed can help you manage this behavior in a way that is supportive of their natural instincts. Whether it’s a way to mark their territory, regulate their temperature, or simply get comfortable, digging is an ingrained behavior that can be redirected with patience and the right tools.

Providing a safe, cozy space for your dog to call their own can reduce the likelihood of them digging in places where it’s not desirable. If the behavior becomes compulsive or destructive, it may be worth consulting with a veterinarian or trainer to ensure there aren’t underlying issues at play.