In a survey, over half of dog owners said their pet wakes them at least once on any given night. It isn’t because he is trying to make you cranky or unhealthy, of course. Dog and human sleep cycles are quite different. That’s not the only way dogs differ from their human families in the area of sleep. Have you ever noticed your dog viciously scratching at the floor, cushion, or bed before he lays down? Why is this? Is something wrong, like he doesn’t like his bed? Is he going to damage something? Let’s get into these questions and concerns right now by answering why do dogs scratch their bed?
Why do Dogs Scratch Their Bed?
Bed-scratching behavior is characterized by pawing, scratching, digging, and rolling around in the area where your dog intends to rest. If you’ve noticed your dog scratching with quite a fervor before he finally lays down, you’re not alone. In fact, most if not all dogs do this as they choose a sleeping spot. Why is this? As you may have guessed, it is because of their natural animal instincts. While your pup loves yummy peanut butter treats and belly scratches, his ancestors were vastly different creatures. They didn’t have a warm, dry, and happy home to safely fall asleep in every night.
Your dog's wild ancestors scratched at piles of leaves, dirt, and pine needles to create a comfortable mound of bedding. There’s more to it than just making a bed; they were also making it as cool and comfortable as possible. Burrowing under leaves and dirt created either a warmer or cooler space where dogs could escape any extreme temperatures. The top dirt is going to be what is exposed to the elements, whether it be a scorching sun or wet, cold rain. The sleeping spot, when done correctly, also served as protection against predators. Scratching serves to manipulate the materials around them so they could help conceal their position and make them feel less vulnerable as they slumbered. The last thing a wild dog wants is to be awoken in the middle of their sleep by a predator or rival!
The Importance of a Durable Dog Bed
You may only see a dog bed with a scratched-up blanket, but your dog sees and smells a space that he has made his own. Bed-scratching is a natural instinct. Your dog is going to scratch at his bed. Many dogs repeatedly circle before settling down as well. This is okay! Instead of trying to stop his natural instincts, you should instead be shopping for a dog bed that is durable and going to stand up to the scratching. You want the bed to be comfortable, though, not like sleeping on a piece of wood. The key is to choose a dog bed that has a cover, making it both durable and comfy. The industry’s top dog beds have been tested for durability and quality. The best part of a dog bed with a cover is that it will be easy to remove and wash in your machine.
Our Favorite Dog Bed Choices
Dogs sleep between 12 to 18 hours a day, so they need a comfy bed to snooze on just like you do. Although you might find your pup occasionally, or often, snuggled at your side during the night, dogs need to have a bed of their own. Just like you like having a place of your own. Your dog does too.
Here at City Mattress, we offer several fantastic dog beds for your consideration. One of our favorites is the Martha Stewart’s Bella Memory Foam Pet Bed, which delivers a true plushy comfort thanks to two conforming layers. With a layer of gel-infused memory foam over sturdy, solid foam and pillow bolsters surrounding the edges of the sleep surface, this bed is as comfortable as your own. Because of it’s design, it enhances your dog’s feeling of safety. It creates the perfect sheltered snuggling place for your pup, like his own personal den. The Martha Stewart’s Luna Denim Pet Bed is another great option. The SFERRA Lettino Dog Bed offers your dog the comfort and indulgence they deserve because it features a high-loft pillow and crisply tailored Festival linen.
When your dog is sleeping on a high-quality, comfortable dog bed, you can stop worrying about why he is scratching and if he’ll damage something. You can sleep with the peace of mind that he has a bed just as great as yours!