No matter how much you love your canine, if it’s scratching your bed sheets it can get annoying. However, you should know that sometimes this behavior is completely natural.
While dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, they still have some instincts from their ancestors. Today’s article will cover all of the main reasons why a dog scratches bed sheets.
Why Does My Dog Scratch My Bed Sheets?
Dogs scratch bed sheets to mark territory, look for someone/something, find comfort, stop itching, temperature, and anxiety.
1. They are Marking Their Territory:
The first possible explanation of your dog digging and scratching your bed sheets is the excretion of a scent from glands under its paws. When the dogs dig with their paws, they leave behind a scent that they can trace in the future.
If you notice your dog scratching a particular area on your bed and digging or scratching it, this is likely the case. Your pet is simply marking its territory by following its instinct.
2. The Pup is Looking for Someone or Something:
We all know that dogs have a heightened smelling sense. When they’re scratching the bed sheets, they might smell another animal or person. This is common when you get a puppy and a kitten at the same time.
Your dog might also be looking for one of their toys.
3. Your Dog Wants a Comfortable Spot:
By scratching and digging a space on the bed, your canine is trying to find out the most comfortable spot to snuggle into. They may not be satisfied with their own beds because after all, being in a dog bed takes them away from you. They are also probably attracted to your bed because of the scent.
4. Relieve Itching:
Your dog might relieve itching and irritation by scratching the bed sheets. You should do a scan of your dog’s skin and make sure they don’t have any inflammation or scabs on their skin.
If you suspect your dog has allergies or dermatitis, you should check out my article on alternatives to apoquel for dogs.
5. They Have Seen Another Dog Scratching the Sheets:
Dogs are quick learners, and they imitate the behaviors of their clan. You might experience your dog scratching the sheets after another dog does it. Your dog might also learn this behavior from a cat, especially if it gets a reaction out of you.
6. They are Anxious:
In some cases, if the dog is scratching the sheets or the beddings rigorously, it might be a sign of anxiety. If you find that your dog doesn’t settle on the bed after scratching the sheets, you might need to consult a vet.
If your dog is experiencing anxiety disorder, he may scratch or dig beddings, furniture or even carpet. If your dog starts to stink up your bed or furniture, check out my article on how to clean dog smegma off of furniture.
7. Your Dog Doesn’t Like the Temperature Setting of Your Home:
The temperature setting of your home may be too cold for your dog. They might want to snuggle in a comfier place such as a burrow, so they instinctively start digging one in the most comfortable place in your house.
If you suspect this is the cause, you should turn up the temperature in your house.
Should I Stop My Dog From Scratching the Bed Sheets?
It totally depends on you. If you’re comfortable with your dog sharing the bed with you, you can ignore the behavior. However, if the behavior annoys you, try to encourage other sleeping habits to your dog by introducing positive reinforcement.
You can do this by giving your dog a treat every time he/she sleeps in their own bed. You can also try to take them for a walk before bedtime to tire them out. Lastly, you can buy a new toy in an attempt to distract them from your bed and bed sheets.
