Ever catch your dog furiously scratching your bed sheets like they’re digging for buried treasure? It might be amusing or leave you puzzled, but it’s more common than you think.
Dogs scratch for a variety of reasons—some instinctual, others environmental or emotional. In this article, we’ll explore what might be causing this behaviour and share practical solutions to keep your bed sheets intact. Whether it’s as simple as providing an alternative like orthopedic dog beds or addressing deeper needs, we’ve got you covered with tips to create a cosy, stress-free space for you and your pup.
What’s Driving This Habit?
Dogs don’t scratch bed sheets just to confuse us—this behaviour is often rooted in natural instincts and everyday habits. To address it effectively, it’s helpful to understand why they’re doing it in the first place.
Natural Instincts
Scratching, digging, and nesting are behaviours dogs have inherited from their ancestors. In the wild, dogs would scratch the ground to create a soft, comfortable sleeping spot. Wild canines scratch to create a nest or uncover cooler ground. Your dog may still have this natural instinct, scratching your bed sheets to create a snug spot, even though they now sleep on a comfortable bed. This behaviour is simply a reminder that the instinct hasn’t completely faded.
Behavioural Reasons
While scratching is often a normal part of your dog’s routine, it’s important to consider the reasons behind it. Is your dog scratching occasionally before sleeping, or has it turned into a habit? Normal scratching may simply be a sign of comfort-seeking, but persistent scratching could point to underlying issues—including anxiety, boredom, or even physical discomfort.
If your dog has a lot of pent-up energy, they may scratch more frequently as a way to release frustration. Dogs may also use repetitive actions like scratching to cope with feelings of unease. Changes in the environment at home—such as a new pet or even loud noises—might cause your pup to scratch as a way to self-soothe. This behaviour provides them with a sense of control and can temporarily ease their tension.
Common Reasons for Scratching Bed Sheets
Dogs have their quirks, and scratching bed sheets is a behaviour that can stem from different factors. Understanding these reasons can help you figure out what’s driving your pup’s actions and ways to correct the behaviour.
Instinctual Behaviour
Nesting Instincts
Dogs inherit many behaviours from their wild ancestors, and scratching is one of them. In the wild, dogs scratch at dirt, leaves, or grass to create a cosy sleeping area that makes them feel more secure.
If your dog is scratching your bed sheets before lying down, it might simply be their way of preparing their “nest”, even if they’re already surrounded by comfort. You might notice this behaviour when they circle a few times before settling in—it’s all a part of their instinctual routine.
Marking Territory
Another reason why dogs scratch their owners’ sheets is to mark their territory. Dogs have scent glands in their paws, so when they scratch, they’re essentially leaving a subtle scent behind. If your dog scratches your sheets more when other pets or people have been in the area, it could be a form of marking their territory. This is a harmless instinct but one that can be confusing if you’re not aware of its purpose.
Comfort-Seeking Behaviour
Temperature Regulation
Scratching can help dogs regulate their temperature, especially if they’re feeling too warm. By scratching the sheets, they might be trying to find a cooler surface underneath, similar to how they would scratch dirt or grass outdoors. You might notice your dog scratching more in the summer as a way to find relief from the heat.
Searching for Comfort
Sometimes, scratching can simply be about making things more comfortable. Dogs may scratch to fluff up bedding or arrange it to their liking, much like how we adjust our pillows or blankets. If your dog is scratching their bed or your sheets before curling up, it’s likely their way of achieving that perfect level of comfort.
Anxiety or Stress
Separation Anxiety
Dogs dealing with separation anxiety often show behaviours like scratching when left alone. If your dog scratches your bed sheets when you’re out or even when you’re in another room, it might be their way of coping with the stress of being apart. Likewise, arriving home to a messy bed likely means your dog scratched the sheets to feel comforted by your scent while you were away.
Changes in Environment
Moving to a new home, the addition of a family member, or changes in routine can also cause stress for dogs, leading to behaviours like scratching. Try to recall when the scratching started—was it after having guests stay over or having moved? Your dog might scratch the sheets as a way to self-soothe in an unfamiliar or overwhelming situation.
Attention-Seeking Behaviour
Did you know scratching can also be a way for your pup to get your attention? If you’ve ever rushed over to stop your dog from scratching the bed or immediately interacted with them afterwards, they might see this as another way to engage with you. A bored or lonely dog might scratch the bed because they’ve learned it’s a surefire way to get you to react or pay attention.
Boredom
As mentioned above, a lack of mental stimulation or physical exercise can cause dogs to get bored. When your dog hasn’t had enough playtime or activity during the day, they will be more likely to scratch the bed sheets out of boredom or to burn off some of their excess energy.
Medical Issues
Skin Irritation or Allergies
If your dog is scratching more than usual, it could be due to skin irritation, allergies, or parasites like fleas. A dog with itchy skin might scratch the bed to relieve the discomfort. Check for signs of redness, rashes, or excessive licking to determine if this is the cause. If you suspect your dog might be having skin issues, we advise taking them to the vet.
Arthritis or Joint Pain
Older dogs or those with joint pain may scratch to find a more comfortable position. If your senior dog is taking longer to settle or seems restless while lying down, scratching might be their way of easing discomfort before they can finally relax.
Some dog breeds are also more prone to arthritis or joint problems, including:
- Labrador Retrievers: Their genetic predisposition and active lifestyle make them susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Dachshund: Their long bodies and short legs put them at high risk for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
- Rottweiler: Their large size and rapid growth rate often lead to hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Newfoundland: Their large build puts extra stress on their joints, making them vulnerable to hip and elbow dysplasia.
Habitual Behavior
Learned Behaviour
Over time, scratching might become a habit for your pup, even if there’s no clear reason for it. Your dog might have scratched in the past to adjust the bedding, found it enjoyable or calming, and simply kept up the behaviour as part of their routine.
Reinforcement
Dogs are quick learners, and if scratching has previously gotten them a response—like attention or being allowed on the bed—they might repeat it. If your dog scratched at the sheets once and you rewarded them with a cuddle, they might see this behaviour as a way to earn rewards in the future.
Understanding Breed-Specific Factors
Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and temperaments, and their breed can play a big role in why they scratch. Knowing these breed-specific tendencies will allow you to address your dog’s behaviour more effectively.
Breeds with Strong Instincts
Terriers and Digging
If you’re a terrier owner, you’ve probably seen your dog in action—digging up the backyard or furiously pawing at the carpet. Terriers were bred to hunt small animals, so it’s only natural that their digging instincts are strong. However, this same drive can carry over to bed-scratching.
Terriers might mimic the behaviour they’ve learned to uncover prey by attacking their owners’ sheets. Your Jack Russel or Australian Terrier might scratch the bed as if it’s their latest digging project, even if all they’re trying to do is settle down for a nap.
Herding Breeds
Herding breeds like Border Collies or Australian Shepherds are wired to control their surroundings. This instinct can sometimes translate to bed-scratching as a way of “organising” their space. If you have a hedging dog, it’s likely you’ve noticed them scratching or circling excessively before lying down—it’s their way of creating a sense of order and security in their space.
Small vs. Large Breeds
Size-Related Comfort
Small dogs, like Chihuahuas or Shih Tzus, often scratch more to feel secure. Being closer to the ground, these breeds tend to feel vulnerable and instinctively try to create a snug, safe space by scratching the sheets into place. Dog owners with tiny Pomeranians might notice their dogs pawing at the bed to burrow before curling up.
Larger breeds, on the other hand, tend to scratch for comfort. Dogs like Golden Retrievers or Great Danes might paw at the bedding to adjust it and create a softer, more supportive spot to rest their bigger bodies. If your larger dog scratches the bed before plopping down with a heavy sign, it’s likely their way of getting cosy.
Keeping Your Dog Happy—and Your Bed Intact
The good news is that scratching bed sheets is a behaviour that can often be managed with a few adjustments and the right approach. Here’s how you can help your dog while keeping your sheets intact:
Provide a Comfortable Sleeping Area
Dog-Specific Bedding
Invest in a dog bed that suits your pup’s needs—whether they prefer something soft, supportive, or orthopedic. Your dog’s size plays a big role here; smaller breeds may feel cosier in a snug bed with raised edges, while larger breeds often need a spacious, well-padded option for proper support.
When your dog is scratching your sheets to create a comfortable sport, providing their own plush, well-cushioned bed can redirect this behaviour. Place it in a quiet corner where they feel safe, and add a blanket or item with your scent for extra comfort.
Temperature Control
Dogs are sensitive to temperature changes, so it’s important to keep their sleeping area comfortable throughout the year. During hot summer months, consider a cooling mat or placing their bed in a shaded, breezy spot to help them stay cool. In the colder winter months, a cosy blanket or insulated bedding is your pup’s best friend. Adjusting the temperature around the area where they sleep might help reduce sheet-scratching behaviour.
Behavioural Training
Positive Reinforcement
Rewarding good behaviour is key to addressing scratching. For example, when your dog settles on their bed without scratching, offer a treat or praise. This will help them associate the behaviour with positive outcomes and encourage them to repeat it.
Other tips for positive reinforcement include:
- Use a consistent word, like “yes” or “good”, the moment your dog stops scratching the sheets or settles on in their bed.
- For pups that love playtime, reward them with a favourite toy or game after they settle on their bed without scratching the sheets.
- Make sure everyone in the household uses the same cues and rewards when addressing sheet-scratching behaviour to avoid mixed signals that can confuse and slow your dog’s process.
Set Boundaries
If the scratching persists, consider keeping your dog off the bed. Use a portable dog gate or close the door to limit access temporarily. Giving your dog clear boundaries will help break the cycle while you work on training.
Training Alternatives
Redirect your dog’s energy by training them to scratch in a designated area instead, such as a sandbox or a specific spot in the yard. When you catch your dog scratching the bed, gently guide them to their “digging zone” and reward them for using it.
Another alternative is to offer a treat-dispensing toy or a chew toy to focus on. Praise and reward your pup when they choose the toy over the sheets to reinforce the positive alternative. Over time, they’ll learn to redirect their energy towards more appropriate activities.
Managing Anxiety or Stress
Routine and Consistency
Dogs thrive on routine, so keeping their daily schedule content will reduce anxiety. Feed, walk, and play with your dog at the same times each day. If your dog usually scratches the sheets when you’re gone, a predictable routine will help them feel more secure in your absence.
Calming Aids
Another option is a calming aid, especially if anxiety is what’s driving the behaviour. Pheromone diffusers mimic the comforting scents that mother dogs release, which can help your dog relax. You can try using a calming jacket, offering a chew toy, or playing soothing music when your dog seems stressed. For example, during a thunderstorm, these calming aids can help relax your dog, ease their nerves, and reduce scratching behaviour.
Medical Interventions
Vet Consultations
Has scratching become frequent or accompanied by other symptoms? If so, it might be time to consult your veterinarian. Conditions like skin irritations, allergies, or joint pain could be the underlying cause. Dogs that scratch excessively or lick their paws often may be dealing with an allergy that requires treatment.
Treat Underlying Conditions
Once medical issues are diagnosed, treatments like anti-inflammatory medication for arthritis or topical creams for skin irritation can provide relief. Addressing these conditions often reduces sheet-scratching behaviour, as your dog feels more comfortable overall.
Mental and Physical Stimulation
Exercise and Playtime
A tired dog is a happy dog. Regular exercise and playtime will keep your dog from getting bored, which is a common cause of destructive behaviours like scratching. A long walk, a game of fetch, or a fun day out at the beach can burn off energy and leave your dog content to relax in their bed.
Interactive Toys
For those busy days, an interactive toy will keep your dog busy. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, or chew toys will keep your dog mentally engaged and challenged. Chasing a ball from an automatic launcher can help your dog stay active and redirect their focus, keeping them active and entertained.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, scratching behaviour persists or seems to worsen. In such cases, seeking help from a professional is the next step.
Persistent Issues
If your dog continues to scratch bed sheets frequently, even after you’ve set boundaries, redirected their energy, or reinforced positive behaviour, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviourist.
These professionals are equipped to evaluate your dog’s behaviour in more detail and identify triggers you may have missed. Their expertise and experience enable them to develop a tailored plan to address the issue. For instance, if your dog scratches out of habit, a trainer can teach alternative behaviours to break the cycle.
Severe Anxiety or Medical Conditions
Scratching behaviour can sometimes point to underlying issues, such as severe anxiety or medical problems. These issues require professional intervention to get to the root of your dog’s behaviour. If your dog’s scratching is accompanied by whining, pacing, or destructive chewing, it’s likely a sign of anxiety that needs specialised help.
Similarly, medical conditions like joint pain or chronic skin irritation may be causing discomfort and should be assessed by your vet. By addressing these underlying problems, your dog’s scratching behaviour can be resolved.
Putting an End to Sheet-Scratching Behaviour
Scratching bed sheets might seem like a simple quirk, but it can stem from various reasons—instincts, comfort-seeking, anxiety, boredom, or even medical issues. Understanding the cause is key to addressing the behaviour effectively and helping your dog feel secure and content.
With some patience and consistency, scratching behaviour can be managed or redirected. Simple changes, such as offering a cosy sleeping space, encouraging positive habits, or addressing sources of stress, can make a noticeable difference over time.
However, if the scratching continues or comes with other symptoms, keeping a close eye on your dog and consulting a veterinarian or professional trainer is a smart step. Their expertise can help uncover the root cause and provide personalised strategies. By taking these steps, you create a happier, more relaxed environment for you and your dog.
