Dogs have a knack for finding cosy hideaways, and it’s not unusual to find them tucked away under your bed. You walk into your bedroom, glance around, and notice your pup has claimed the space under your bed again. It’s not the comfiest-looking spot, but for some reason, it seems to be their favourite.
If you’ve ever wondered why your dog chooses the space under your bed instead of their cosy memory foam dog bed, you’re not alone. Many dog owners are curious about this behaviour and what it might mean. This article dives into why your dog might prefer this spot and offers insights to help you decide if it’s something that needs attention.
Why Do Dogs Seek Out Hidden Spaces?
Understanding why your dog sleeps under the bed starts with exploring their instincts and the context behind this behaviour.
Natural Instincts
Dogs have deeply ingrained instincts that influence their behaviour, many of which stem from their wild ancestors. Sleeping under the bed often aligns with these natural tendencies:
- Seeking Shelter: In the wild, dogs sought out enclosed spaces like caves or dens for protection. Similarly, the space under your bed mimics this safe, enclosed environment and offers a sense of security.
- Protection: Dogs may retreat under the bed to feel shielded from external factors like noise, unfamiliar guests, or even weather changes. In some circumstances, it may simply be your dog’s way of finding a personal safe zone.
- Comfort: The small, enclosed space under a bed can feel warm and cosy, particularly for dogs who enjoy curling up in snug spots.
Behavioural Context
While it’s normal for many dogs to gravitate towards sleeping under the bed, it’s important to consider the context surrounding this habit:
- A Personal Retreat: Some dogs enjoy alone time, and the space under the bed offers solitude. If your dog otherwise appears happy and healthy, this behaviour is likely harmless and is simply a means for them to have some privacy, especially if you’ve got a busy household.
- Coping with Stress: For other dogs, sleeping under the bed could signal anxiety or fear. Loud noises, unexpected visitors, or changes in routine might push them to seek refuge in a quiet, familiar spot.
- Health Considerations: If this is a sudden change in behaviour, it’s worth observing other signs that may indicate illness or some form of discomfort. A vet check can help rule out any underlying issues and give you peace of mind.
Common Reasons for Sleeping Under the Bed
Every dog has its own reasons for choosing the space under the bed as their go-to spot, but many of these behaviours tie back to three things: their instincts, preferences, or experiences. Let’s explore some of the most common explanations behind this behaviour:
Seeking Security and Comfort
Denning Instinct
Dogs are natural den animals, which means they prefer enclosed spaces to feel secure and a sense of belonging. Even though your dog is already domesticated, they might still seek out this protective space. The area under your bed may feel like the perfect den—a snug spot where your pup can unwind without being disturbed.
Feeling Safe
Whether it’s an unfamiliar visitor in the house or just a busy day with lots of activity, the bed’s shelter can offer a retreat where your dog feels protected from anything that might seem overwhelming.
Avoiding Disturbances
Noise Sensitivity
Dogs have better hearing than humans, and those with sensitive ears might escape to quieter spots when the vacuum starts up, the kids are playing loudly, or when there’s heavy traffic outside. Under the bed can become your dog’s safe haven from these sounds.
Evading Household Activity
For dogs who prefer calm over chaos, the space underneath your bed can be a retreat from the hustle and bustle of a lively home—like a full house during a family gathering or the lively sounds of a TV blaring in full swing in the living room.
Coping with Anxiety or Fear
Separation Anxiety
If your dog tends to feel uneasy when you’re not home, they might find comfort in a secluded spot like under your bed, where they can feel a little less vulnerable. Other signs of separation anxiety in dogs include:
- Trembling or salivating
- Digging and scratching at doors or windows
- Destructive chewing
- Howling, barking, or whining
Fear of Thunderstorms or Fireworks
Thunderstorms, fireworks, or other loud events often send dogs searching for a place to hide. The area under the bed provides both physical and emotional shelter during these stressful moments. You can ease your dog's fear by setting up a quiet, secure spot to retreat to during storms or fireworks.
Seeking Cooler or Warmer Spots
Temperature Regulation
On warm summer days, your dog might gravitate to the cooler surface under your bed for relief. When the nights turn cooler, the enclosed space can also offer a snug, warm spot to settle in peacefully. Plus, having you nearby provides an extra source of comfort and security.
Seasonal Behaviour
You might notice this behaviour in certain seasons—like summer, when your dog is avoiding heat, or in winter when they’re searching for warmth. Dogs are sensitive to temperature changes and often seek environments, like the space under your bed, to help them regulate their body temperatures
Medical Issues
Pain or Discomfort
A dog feeling unwell or experiencing pain may retreat under the bed to rest without being disturbed. This behaviour allows them to avoid interaction and stimulation that might worsen the discomfort they feel. If you suspect your pup might be in pain, monitor for other symptoms, such as changes in appetite, energy levels, or posture, to determine if a vet visit is necessary.
Cognitive Dysfunction
Did you know that older dogs can undergo cognitive changes? An older dog may feel confused or disoriented and choose the bed as a safe, familiar spot to settle. Your dog may also become more anxious and exhibit other signs like pacing and changes in sleep patterns. Providing a predictable environment and consulting with your vet can help address these needs.
Habitual Behaviour
Routine and Habit
Sometimes, dogs sleep under the bed for no other reason than it’s become a part of their routine. If they’ve associated the spot with rest or safety over time, it just becomes their default choice. This habit can develop without any particular cause and might persist even if you provide more comfortable options.
Previous Reinforcement
If your dog was comforted, praised, or left alone when they first started sleeping under the bed, they might continue the behaviour because it worked so well for them in the past. Remember that dogs learn through association, so even small gestures, like letting them stay undisturbed there, can reinforce the habit.
How Different Dog Breeds Approach Sleeping Habits
Not all dogs behave the same way when it comes to choosing their favourite sleeping spot. You might be surprised to learn that their breed can play a role in these preferences. Factors like size, instincts, and inherited traits influence why some dogs gravitate towards spaces like under the bed.
Small vs. Large Breeds
Size-Related Comfort
Smaller breeds, such as Chihuahuas or Daschunds, are naturally more inclined to seek out snug, enclosed spaces where they feel secure. Their petite size allows them to easily slip under the bed, where they can settle comfortably and feel shielded away from the world around them. A smaller dog may feel safer in this tucked-away spot during a thunderstorm or when the house is busy with activity.
On the other hand, larger dogs, like Labradors or German Shepherds, may find it harder to fit under the bed—but that doesn’t stop them from trying. You might catch your larger dog squeezing halfway under the bed, with their legs sticking out, simply because they feel the same need for a secure, enclosed environment.
Breeds with Strong Denning Instincts
Some breeds, like terriers, are naturally drawn to burrowing and den-like spaces due to their strong instincts. Historically bred to dig and hunt small prey, these dogs retain the desire to seek out tight, secure spots to feel at ease. Breeds like Jack Russel Terriers might love burrowing under blankets or curling up under furniture because it mimics the dens their ancestors would have sought out in the wild.
Similarly, breeds like Huskies, which are known for their independent and instinctual nature, may gravitate towards places at home that provide solitude and a sense of control. If you own a breed with strong denning instincts, consider providing a dedicated safe space to fulfil these natural behaviours while keeping them out from under your bed.
What Can I Do to Address the Behaviour?
While sleeping under the bed is often harmless, there are ways to manage or redirect this behaviour. Whether it stems from natural preferences, anxiety, or temperature needs, these tips will help address the underlying reasons and help your dog feel more at ease at home.
Providing Alternative Safe Spaces
Create a Den-like Area
Provide your pup with a suitable alternative by creating a cosy den-like area in a dedicated spot at home. This could be a quiet corner with their favourite blanket, or a covered nook that mimics the safe feeling of being under the bed. You could also try placing a small, covered table with cushions near your bed, giving them a snug hideout where they can still feel close to you.
Get a Dog Crate or Bed
Crates can provide a secure space if introduced positively. Choose a crate that’s the right size for your dog and make it feel inviting by adding soft bedding or their favourite blanket. Memory foam dog beds with bolstered sides can also mimic the security of an enclosed space. A crate or dog bed placed in a calm area of the house can give anxious dogs a sense of control over their environment and redirect them from hiding out under the bed.
Manage Anxiety or Fear
Routine and Consistency
Dogs thrive on routine, so maintaining a consistent feeding, walking, and play schedule can reduce anxiety. If your dog usually hides during loud events, try to anticipate these situations and prepare their safe space beforehand. The familiarity of a routine will help them feel secure and less likely to retreat under the bed.
Calming Aids
For dogs dealing with fear, calming aids can make a big difference. Products like pheromone diffusers, calming blankets, or anxiety wraps provide comfort in stressful situations like thunderstorms or fireworks. These tools work by mimicking the soothing signals dogs associate with safety and will help them relax without the need to hide away.
Desensitisation Training
If loud noises or specific situations trigger your dog, desensitisation can help. Start by exposing them to a trigger at a very low level while pairing it with positive reinforcement, like treats or praise. Gradually increase exposure over time to build your pup’s tolerance. For example, play a low-volume recording of thunder while rewarding calm behaviour to teach your dog that the sound isn’t something to fear.
Temperature Control
Ensure Comfortable Temperature
Dogs often seek out cooler or warmer spots to regulate their body temperature. To keep your dog comfortable, make sure their sleeping area is properly ventilated during warmer months. Provide a blanket or heating pad during colder seasons to prevent them from seeking relief under your bed.
Consulting a Veterinarian
Schedule a Health Check
If your dog’s behaviour changes suddenly or is accompanied by other signs of discomfort, we recommend consulting a veterinarian. A dog hiding more frequently might be experiencing pain or an underlying medical condition. A professional can identify any potential health concerns and guide you toward a solution.
Treatment Options
Should a medical condition be diagnosed, your vet can recommend treatments to alleviate the issue. This might include medication for pain, supplements for cognitive dysfunction in older dogs, or strategies to help manage anxiety. A vet-prescribed anti-anxiety medication can help a dog with severe fear and reduce their need to hide under the bed.
By addressing these factors, you create a more comfortable and reassuring environment for your dog to help them feel secure and cared for while encouraging positive behaviours.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many dogs’ behaviours can be managed at home with patience and the right techniques, there are times when professional support is the best option. Whether your dog’s actions are tied to anxiety or potential health issues, when to seek help can make a big difference for both you and your pup.
Persistent Anxiety or Fear
If your dog consistently shows signs of anxiety, it might be time to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviourist. These experts can assess your dog’s triggers and create a personalised plan to help them feel more secure.
Signs of anxiety in dogs include:
- Pacing or moving around nervously without settling.
- Excessive panting unrelated to heat or exercise.
- Destructive behaviours, such as chewing, digging, or scratching.
- Clinginess, such as following you around or refusing to be alone.
- Having accidents indoors despite being house-trained.
For instance, if thunderstorms send your dog into a panic, a behaviourist can guide you through desensitisation techniques and recommend calming strategies to help your dog cope.
Medical Concerns
If your dog’s hiding behaviour appears to be sudden or is accompanied by other symptoms like changes in appetite, lethargy, or unusual vocalisation, the best thing to do is to consult a veterinarian.
These signs could indicate an underlying health issue, such as pain, illness, or even age-related cognitive changes. An older dog retreating under the bed might be dealing with joint discomfort or confusion. A vet can perform a thorough examination and recommend treatments or adjustments at home to improve your dog’s quality of life.
By recognising when professional help is needed, you can address the root cause of your dog’s behaviour and provide the support they need to thrive.
Helping Your Dog Feel Comfortable and Confident
Dogs choose to sleep under the bed for various reasons—ranging from natural instincts and comfort-seeking to anxiety or health concerns. Understanding the reason behind this behaviour is the first step to providing your dog with the best support.
While the behaviour might seem puzzling or inconvenient, it’s often manageable with the right approach. By offering alternative safe spaces, maintaining consistent routines, and addressing any anxiety triggers, you can redirect this habit over time. With a bit of patience and understanding, most dogs can learn to feel just as comfortable in a new spot.
Take the time to observe your dog’s behaviour carefully to see if there are specific triggers that prompt them to retreat under the bed. If the behaviour persists or seems linked to health concerns, a vet or professional behaviourist can identify the root cause and create a tailored plan to ensure your dog feels secure and happy. With the right steps, you can ensure your dog feels safe and comfortable without needing to hide under the bed.
