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If you’ve ever noticed your dog pawing at their bed or the couch before settling down to rest, you’ve likely wondered about the reason—especially when there’s nothing for your buddy to rearrange with their digging.
It turns out the instinct-based pawing has more utility than you might think. We reached out to Dr. Nell Ostermeier, DVM, CVA, FAAVA, and veterinary advisor at Figo Pet Insurance, to understand why dogs do this—and how you can redirect the behavior when you need to.
Why Dogs Dig in Beds and Couches
Dogs dig at beds and couches for a variety of reasons, explains Dr. Ostermeier. The most common are nesting, territory marking, temperature regulation, and boredom or stress.
Nesting instincts
For some dogs, digging at a bed or sleeping surface is the expression of an instinctive habit. Their ancestors created sleeping nests out of dirt and leaves in the wild by digging. Although pawing at the couch might not do much for modern pets, the instinct is still there.
Marking their territory
Since dogs have scent glands in their paws, digging at their bedding helps them leave their scent, marking it as their own. Sleeping in a spot that smells like them offers a sense of security.
Temperature regulation
Digging can help a dog adjust their bedding to their preferred temperature. More blankets and higher walls create a cozier spot, while fewer coverings make bedding cooler. Scratching up their bedding can also be the dog equivalent of flipping the pillow to the cooler side.
Stress, anxiety, or boredom
Dogs that are stressed, anxious, or have excessive energy may dig at soft surfaces to help relieve these feelings. Dr. Ostermeier explains that if the behavior is so forceful as to be destructive, these emotions are usually at the root of the problem.
That might require a vet visit to look into treatment for anxiety, an increase in exercise, or help from a professional trainer.
Juan Jose Napuri via iStock
How To Redirect a Dog Who Scratches the Couch
To stop your dog from digging at your couch or bed, the best approach is to redirect their behavior to another outlet. Here are some strategies Dr. Ostermeier recommends.
Redirection in the moment
If you catch your dog digging at the bedding in the moment, you can offer a replacement outlet. What you offer depends on whether you think they’re scratching as a way to get comfortable or as a way to relieve stress or boredom.
If they’re attempting to get comfortable, try soothing your dog with some gentle pets. You can also offer a calming aid, or a pillow or a blanket that they’re allowed to dig at or fluff.
If you suspect stress or boredom is a contributing factor, try engaging your pet in some one-on-one playtime, training, or exercise. You can also offer a puzzle toy to play with to give them an alternate outlet for their energy.
Long-term solutions
Creating a calm, comfortable environment can help your dog settle down without needing to dig. Calming treats and pheromones can be beneficial for some dogs. And don’t overlook the importance of a high-quality dog bed.
Place-training your dog or teaching them a cue like “settle” can also help prevent an anxious dog from digging in response to stress.
Alternatively, if you suspect the behavior stems from stress or anxiety, it’s important to address the root cause with your vet or a veterinary behaviorist, who can work with you to come up with a personalized treatment plan.
Prystai via iStock
How To Protect Bedding and Couches
If you have a forceful digger, you’ll likely want to safeguard soft bedding and couches to prevent damage.
For dogs that frequently paw at their beds, an indestructible dog bed can be a worthwhile investment. Rover’s office dogs like the sturdy PetFusion Ultimate, which is a good mix of tough and comfy.
To protect couches and upholstered chairs, consider using a couch cover or a throw blanket. Not only do covers help protect the fabric or leather from scratches, they can also keep dog hair and dirt at bay while maximizing snuggles. Our testers like Funny Fuzzy’s waterproof couch covers for their mix of style and function.
Lastly, don’t forget to keep your dog’s nails trimmed! Shorter nails can help lessen damage to soft surfaces from your pet’s digging.
