Reasons Why Dogs Sleep Under The Covers
Dogs sleeping under the covers is a behaviour that is driven by their natural instincts and desire for comfort and security. When dogs sleep under the covers, they mimic the feeling of being in a den, a safe and secure place that provides them with protection and warmth. This behaviour can also help dogs feel close to their owners and establish a strong bond.
In addition, some dogs may also find the darkness and enclosed space under the covers to be calming, helping them to relax and sleep more comfortably. Some breeds, such as the Chihuahua, were bred to be lap dogs and enjoy close physical contact with their owners, which is why they may be more likely to sleep under the covers.
It’s Quiet Under There
Rover likes to go beneath the covers to get away from all the noise and activity. It’s like a peaceful mini vacation. Whether he’s escaping the sound of fireworks or guests, he just wants a little silence.
The Sheets Smell Like You
You are your doggo’s hero. You provide food, love, shelter, fun and everything she needs. Our pooches stare at us lovingly and want to be near us. When an opportunity to bathe in our scent arises, they take it.
It’s A Safe Spot
Fido feels safe hiding under the blankets because it’s similar to a den in the wild, a small area where he’s with his pack.
They’re Feeling Anxious
When your pooch is feeling anxious, hiding under the blankets is very calming. If your doggo seems nervous all the time, you can work with her to boost her confidence. Training sessions, socializing with new people and animals, completing an obstacle course, going on walks and playing are all great ways to build confidence and security. If those techniques don’t help, your vet can prescribe anti-anxiety medication. CBD oil and essential oils are natural calming tools.
They Love to Burrow
Dogs enjoy digging. Dachshunds, Beagles and terriers are especially interested in burrowing under the blankets because they were bred to chase little animals underground and enjoy enclosed, dark spaces. Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes also tend to burrow because they dig in the snow to warm themselves and elude predators.
It’s Instinctual
Canines know in the primal part of their brain that burying themselves in the blankets and sheets is safe, warm and cosy. Also, when they live in a pack, they sleep with others and you’re their pack.
Your Fur Baby Is Cold
Short-haired pups like to warm up under the covers. In cold weather, most pups enjoy the temperature under the covers. When they feel too hot, they will leave.
They Know You Think It’s Adorable
Once your fur baby sees how you react to him diving under the blankets, he’s going to repeat the action.
Just Like Mum’s Maternity Den
Did you know that a dog mother creates a “maternity den” to protect herself and her litter after giving birth? Your fur baby may subconsciously remember the feeling of security and being nurtured as a newborn. Canines also live in dens in the wild, so he may have his ancestors’ behaviour imprinted somewhere in his brain.
To Snuggle With You
What beats a good snuggle? Your bed is soft, and you’re there. She can be next to you or rest her head or another body part on you. What a perfectly cuddly setting to sleep in.
They Have Achy Joints
Older dogs suffer from aches and pains as we do. Their stiff joints crave warmth. Being under the blanket in your bed is emotionally and physically therapeutic. There are many effective joint supplements that help ageing dogs maintain or improve their mobility. Ageing also makes body temperature regulation more difficult. If your pup also seems cold during the day, you can purchase a pet bed warmer.
They Have Hypothyroidism
Canines, as we do, sometimes suffer from underperforming thyroids–especially as they age. If your pup is always cold, seems tired most of the time and is gaining weight, you should take him to the vet to find out if he needs thyroid medication.
Should You Allow Your Dog To Sleep Under The Covers In Your Bed
First of all, people wonder if their pooch can suffocate under the blankets. Experts agree that as long as your pup isn’t intertwined in the sheets and can leave the bed if she’s hot, she’s not in danger of suffocating.
Can You Have A Good Night’s Sleep With Your Pooch In The Bed?
If you sleep well with your fur baby in the bed, then it’s not a problem. It’s just love and snuggles.
If you’re unable to sleep because your dog is moving around, jumping on and off the bed or engaging in other behaviours that wake you, you can train him not to stay in the bed with you. To train him to sleep elsewhere, you need to create a comfortable sleeping oasis for him. One option is to purchase a bed similar to a human baby’s bassinet and set it up right near your bed.
If you’d like Rover to be on his own bed a little farther away, find a super comfy dog bed and put a blanket and something with your scent on it in there. My dog nephew has this bed, and I really want a human-sized one. Put a delicious treat on there and praise your pup when he gets on the bed. If you do that training exercise several times a day, he’ll understand that he belongs in his bed.
Here’s a brief video showing how to teach your dog to sleep in her bed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dogs sleeping under the covers is a common and natural behaviour that provides them with comfort and security. By exploring the reasons behind this behaviour, we can appreciate the unique bond that our furry friends share with us and understand why they love to snuggle under the covers for a cosy sleep.
Whether it’s for the warmth, protection, or simple comfort, allowing your dog to sleep under the covers can deepen your bond and create cherished memories that last a lifetime.
