Why Do Dogs Scratch The Floor Before Lying Down

If you ve spied your dog scratching pawing or even biting at his bed before lying down it may seem like an odd way to settle in for a nap.

Why do dogs scratch the floor before lying down. Domesticated dogs which scratch the floor prior to lying down might do the act due to an instinct that scratching could lead to a safer and softer resting place. Why do dogs walk in circles before lying down. However in the wild dogs would scratch the ground in order to create a temperature controlled and comfortable sleeping spots. We all have our special bedtime rituals and so do our pets.

If you own a dog chances are you ve seen the way they walk in tight circles stomp with their paws or claw and dig before lying down. Another funny yet adorable behavior is circling round and round before settling themselves down. Why do dogs scratch the floor before lying down. The habit of scratching the floor before lying down may therefore derive from the need to scare away any unwanted critters.

In tall grass going around before lying down would flatten the tall grass. This way the dog would form a comfortable surface for resting and would make a nice spot to conceal from other animals. Your little buddy probably cocks his head in wonder as you fuss with your sheets and blankets while making the bed. As is the case with most dog behavior analysis there are varied opinions on the subject from a multitude of sources and experts.

These actions are of course futile when done today especially on a flat surface such as a modern dog bed and are therefore characterized as vestigial. Meanwhile when you notice your dog scratching pawing sniffing turning around and then scratching some more at his. In the wild before being domesticated canines used to sleep in the open where they often shared the environment with other small critters. There is a general consensus among dog behaviorists that.

So if you have ever asked yourself why dogs scratch the floor before lying down you may be interested in some of the reasons behind this. But just as we slather on face cream sip a mug of hot tea or prop open a book before bed dogs have their reasons for this pre sleep behavior. Wild dogs used digging behaviors like scratching the floor to create a nest or den in which to rest comfortably and securely. No dog after all would want to share his bed with spiders or snakes.

Depending on the dog and the situation circling behavior can be cute or if excessive can be annoying especially if you re trying to sleep. If so this peculiar act may have you scratching your own head wondering why. Sometimes her turning radius is as tight as her 3 by 2 foot dog bed in winter and others as broad as a spot against the fence outside in the.