Why Does My Dog Pull His Blanket Around? Explained
As Bella's due date got closer, her owner noticed she was acting differently. Bella, a soon-to-be mother dog, starts moving her blanket into a quiet area of the house. At first, her master feels confused and a little concerned.
Why is Bella behaving like this? Is there a problem? After talking to a vet, the owner finds out that Bella is just making a safe area for her puppies, which is a normal behaviour called nesting.
This situation shows a typical question from dog owners: "Why does my dog pull their blanket around?" Nesting is one reason, but there are also many other reasons for this behaviour. Knowing this can help keep your pet relaxed and happy.
Why Does Your Dog Drag His Blanket Around?
1. Seeking Comfort
Dogs have natural instincts from their wild ancestors, like circling or digging to make a cosy place to rest. If your dog changes their bed, they may be trying to make it more comfortable. This behaviour is normal and shows their natural abilities for building nests.
Solution: Place several beds in various parts of your home. This lets your dog pick the best spot to relax without having to move his bed. Place each bed in a quiet, comfy spot, away from drafts and noise.
2. Wanting to be close to you.
Dogs are social pets that like to be close to their humans. If your dog brings their bed closer to you, it likely means they love you and want to be close to you. This behaviour shows that your dog feels safe and relaxed around you.
Solution: Don't respond when your dog moves their bed. Give your dog praise and care when it is calm and relaxed. This encourages good behaviour and discourages actions meant to get attention.
3. Staying Quiet and Peaceful
Dogs can hear very well, so they might move their bed to get away from loud noises or distractions. If your dog moves their bed, they may be looking for a quieter place to relax. This behaviour makes them feel safe and calm.
Solution: Keep a regular schedule and create a safe environment for your dog. Consider crate training to offer a secure setting. Make changes slowly and watch your dog for any signs of stress.
4. Responding to Temperature Changes
Dogs can easily feel changes in temperature. If a room gets too hot or cold, your dog might change where he lies down to feel more relaxed.
Solution: Put your dog's bed in a spot where the temperature stays the same. Stay away from windows, doors, and vents to avoid weather changes. Think about using a fan or heater to keep your space warm.
5. Establishing Territory
Dogs may move their bed to show that they are in charge or to claim a certain area. If your dog moves their bed when another pet or person is around, they might be trying to mark their area. This behaviour is a normal way to set limits.
Solution: Give each pet their own bed and area. This lowers competition and makes each dog feel safe in their space. Make sure each bed is set up in a place where your dog feels safe and cosy.
6. Getting Ready for Nesting
Female dogs, especially when pregnant, may move their bed as part of nesting behaviour. This natural behaviour helps them prepare a safe and cosy area for their soon-to-arrive pups. If your dog is pregnant, this behaviour is normal as she prepares her nest.
Solution: If you think your dog might be pregnant, talk to a vet for help. Create a calm and cosy space for your dog to relax. Don't bother her right now to keep her stress levels down.
7. Attaining Focus
Sometimes, dogs move their bed to get you to notice them. If your dog sees that changing their bed gets your attention, they may do it again to interact with you. This is a way to communicate and connect.
8. Feeling Uncomfortable
If your dog changes their bed a lot, it might mean they are uncomfortable. They may be looking for a more comfortable place because of things like how hot or cold it is, how hard the floor is, or other conditions around them. Making sure your dog's bed is cosy and in a good spot can help reduce this behaviour.
Solution: Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of soreness or pain. If you see any problems, talk to a doctor to check for health issues. Make sure your dog's bed is comfortable and supportive.
9. Lacking Mental Stimulation
Dogs need brain activities to be happy and healthy. If your dog moves their bed, it could mean they are bored or want more fun things to do. Giving toys and gifts, exercising regularly, and playing together can help lessen this behaviour.
10. Feeling Anxious
Dogs might move their bed when they're feeling anxious or stressed. Changes in home life, daily habits, or surroundings can cause this behaviour. If your dog changes the spot of their bed when they're stressed, it could be a way for them to handle their feelings.
Solution: Keep a regular schedule and create a safe environment for your dog. Consider crate training to offer a secure setting. Make changes slowly and watch your dog for any signs of stress.
11. Handling Health Problems
Sometimes, dogs move their bed because they have health problems like arthritis or feel uncomfortable. If your dog looks like it's hurting or uncomfortable, you should see a vet to check for any health issues.
Solution: If the behaviour continues or gets worse, talking to a doctor or a trained dog behaviour expert can help you find specific ways to deal with the problem. They can check your dog's health and surroundings to find any hidden problems.
Should You Encourage It?
A safe and comfortable sleeping area for your dog should be a top priority at all times. Allowing them to pull, scratch, or tunnel their blankets shouldn't be a problem unless there are medical difficulties.
Several options should be on the table if you choose to attempt to reduce the behaviour.
Putting a big, hefty blanket on top of your puppy's bedding is one option. Especially with smaller breeds, the heavier blanket on top might discourage your dog from dragging it around.
An additional layer of blankets could work as well. This will make the surface softer, making it more comfortable for your dog to sleep on. If your dog needs more warmth, a thicker bed might help them relax more easily.
You may have just fulfilled their innate demand for a den-like space by providing them with a warm and inviting nest to call their own. The bedroom where your dog sleeps is no exception. Your dog can simply be unhappy with the spot you've chosen for the dog bed. To avoid the hassle of a dragging cover, they may just move their bed to a different spot.
When You Understand, You Strengthen the Bond!
Knowing why your dog moves his bed can help you deal with this behaviour better. Dogs may move their beds for different reasons, like wanting to be comfortable, reacting to temperature changes, or marking their space. By finding out what’s wrong, you can take the right steps to keep your dog healthy and happy.
If your dog keeps moving his bed after trying to fix the issues, think about talking to a vet or a pet behaviour expert for help. They can offer advice suited to your dog's needs and help fix ongoing problems.
It's important for your dog's health and happiness to have a safe and comfortable home. By watching how he acts and making changes as needed, you can create a safe and happy environment for him.