Dogs have several interesting behaviors that we as owners often wonder about. One common behavior is when dogs spin around in circles or scratch at their bed or the ground before lying down. But why do dogs do this? There are several possible reasons dogs scratch the ground before settling in for a nap.
To mark their territory
One theory is that dogs scratch the ground to mark their territory before lying down. By digging into the earth, dogs release scent from their paw pads. This allows them to leave their mark before settling in. It’s a way for dogs to claim an area as their own space.
This territorial marking is a natural dog behavior related to their wolf ancestors. Wolves would scratch the ground to mark their den area. So when our domestic dogs scratch a bed or rug before lying down, they are likely exhibiting an ancestral tendency to define their space.
To make the area more comfortable
Another common theory is that dogs scratch their bedding to make the area more comfortable before lying down. By digging into blankets or soft bedding, dogs rearrange the material to create the perfect spot to rest.
Dogs have a strong natural instinct to dig and burrow. Scratching and circling before settling down is a leftover behavior from their burrow-dwelling ancestors. So when scratching at a bed, the digging action helps dogs mold the perfect cozy spot to curl up in.
To self-soothe
The act of scratching or digging at the ground may also provide a self-soothing purpose for dogs. The repetitive motion may calm them or release energy before they relax. Similar to how people rub their feet together or play with their hair before sleeping, light scratching can soothe dogs before they doze off.
This calming sensation may stem from the feeling against their paw pads or the sound of scratching. It may mimic sensations from puppyhood of burrowing into littermates for comfort. So a quick bout of scratching helps relax and comfort dogs when preparing to sleep.
To find the proper alignment
Scratching the ground may also help dogs find proper alignment and footing before lying down. By digging into the ground, dogs can ensure they have balanced footing to comfortably rest their body.
Proper alignment helps prevent muscle cramps or limb falling asleep while napping. So scratching allows dogs to mold a flat surface to evenly distributing their body weight. This allows them to find the most ergonomic positioning before dozing off.
To cool off their beds
During warm weather, dogs may scratch at their beds to circulate air and bring cooler earth to the surface. This helps chill their resting spot before settling in during hot temperatures. The light digging mixes up the top layers of soil or fabric, allowing heat to dissipate before they lie down.
By stirring up their bedding, dogs release heat that may have accumulated in their blankets or bed. Circulating air through the area brings a refreshing cooling sensation before snuggling in for a nap.
Out of boredom or anxiety
Some dogs may scratch their bedding out of boredom or anxiety. The action stimulates their mind and releases nervous energy. When dogs are understimulated or stressed, quick bouts of digging can help relieve mental tension.
This is especially true for active, high-energy dog breeds. A quick digging session allows them to expend pent-up energy before settling into rest. So in some cases, scratching stems from a dog’s need for activity and mental engagement before relaxing.
When do most dogs scratch the ground?
Dogs often scratch the ground before lying down for a nap. However, there are certain times when scratching behaviors are most common:
- Right before settling in to sleep – It’s very typical for dogs to give a few quick scratches before circling and lying down for a snooze.
- When making a new bed – Dogs are likely to scratch and dig at new blankets or bedding that doesn’t yet have their scent.
- In hot weather – To cool down a resting spot during high temperatures.
- When anxious – Scratching can help dogs release nervous energy.
- When bored – Digging provides mental stimulation.
So keep an eye out for increased scratching during downtime, new environments, temperature changes or when your dog seems unsettled. This can cue you into their need for attention or calming.
Scratching between different surfaces
| Surface | Scratching Behavior |
|---|---|
| Dirt/grass | More vigorous digging and clawing |
| Bare floors | Light scratching with nails |
| Rugs/dog beds | Circular motions to fluff bedding |
Dogs will scratch differently depending on the surface they are preparing to lie down on. Soft bedding gets more swirling motions to rearrange materials. But tough outdoor surfaces call for more intense clawing behaviors to mark the spot.
Scratching duration
How long and intensely a dog scratches depends on several factors:
- Breed – Small dogs are likely to scratch for a shorter time than large, active breeds.
- Age – Puppies and younger dogs scratch more energetically.
- Personality – Anxious or easily-stimulated dogs may scratch for longer.
- Environment – Unfamiliar or uncomfortable places lead to more intense digging.
- Health – Dogs with skin allergies or joint issues may scratch longer.
On average, most healthy adult dogs spend around 5-20 seconds scratching before lying down. But this varies based on breed, age and personality factors affecting stress levels and energy.
Scratching intensity
Light scratches – Just a quick shuffle of the paws across a surface
Moderate scratches – Visibly disturbing and digging into a material
Vigorous scratches – Deep paw motions and energetic kicking into a surface
Most dogs do fairly light, quick scratches. But this can intensify based on variables like unfamiliar locations, breed traits and health issues. Pay attention to any intense, out-of-the-ordinary scratching to identify causes like anxiety, allergies or discomfort.
Common body positions and motions while scratching
There are a few common motions and positions dogs display while scratching the ground:
- Standing with front legs extended
- Sitting back on hindquarters
- Lowered front chest and raised rear
- Front paw scraping motions
- Back leg kicking actions
- Twisting body and circular hip motions
Rear leg scratching looks similar to kicking after going potty. Front leg scratching mimics digging motions. Most dogs switch between paw scraping and swiveling hips to scratch in circles.
Why do some dogs not scratch before lying down?
While scratching before resting is an innate behavior for most dogs, some dogs rarely or never scratch the ground first. Possible reasons include:
- Calm temperament – Dogs with extremely easygoing personalities may not feel the need to scratch.
- Lack of digging heritage – Some breeds like greyhounds have less natural digging instincts.
- Unknown ancestry – Mixed breed dogs may not have inherited scratching behaviors.
- Age – Senior dogs often scratch less due to lower energy.
- Environment – Dogs may not scratch cement or non-diggable surfaces.
So a dog’s breed background, age, energy level and current surface can all impact whether they need to scratch an area first. But in most cases, light scratching remains a common ritual before lying down.
Should you discourage scratching behaviors?
In most cases, there is no need to discourage light scratching before lying down. This is a harmless innate behavior for dogs. However, it’s reasonable to redirect excessive scratching for reasons like:
- Damaging furniture or flooring
- Digging that stems from separation anxiety
- Constant scratching that signals a health issue
Redirect scratching onto appropriate surfaces like dog beds. Discourage anxious scratching by providing stimulating toys and activities. And talk to your vet if scratching becomes frequent or intense enough to indicate a possible health concern.
Tips for managing dog scratching
Here are some tips for handling a dog’s scratching needs:
- Provide designated digging areas – Designate digging boxes or buried toys to satisfy scratching urges.
- Use scratch-resistant bedding – Durable surfaces like denim can withstand clawing.
- Trim nails regularly – Blunt nails do less damage to fabrics.
- Meet activity needs – Give anxious dogs plenty of exercise and playtime.
- Consider booties – Paw covers can protect sensitive floors.
- Train a stop cue – Teach the word “enough” to halt excessive scratching.
With patience and the right materials, it’s possible to manage most dogs’ natural scratching needs before lying down.
When to seek help for excessive scratching
Consult your vet if your dog’s scratching seems excessive and includes signs like:
- Scratching throughout the day
- Broken nails or bleeding paws
- Hair loss from scratching
- Scratching at their body, not just the ground
Frequent scratching and digging outside of preparing to lie down could indicate health issues requiring medical attention. Seek help ruling out problems like allergies, joint pain and parasite infections.
Conclusion
Light scratching before settling in is an innate ritual for most dogs. Digging into bedding allows dogs to get comfortable, cool down their resting spot and find proper alignment. Scratching also serves as a calming mechanism to self-soothe while expending energy. And dogs with stronger digging heritage may scratch to mark territory or make a nesting area more suitable. While scratching is a harmless habit for dogs, provide appropriate outlets like digging pits and sturdy bedding. Discourage excessive scratching, especially when it signals potential health issues requiring medical attention.