Why Does My Dog Scratch My Bed Sheets + Solutions

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If your dog is digging wildly at your bed sheets, should you worry? Well, probably not but it is still fun to explore reasons your pup keeps pawing away.

Have you been wondering why does my dog scratch my bed sheets?

So, why does your dog scratch your bed sheets? We will cover the main reasons. If your pup’s indoor digging is damaging or just be a bit too much, we also have steps you can follow to prevent it. If you need to stop your dog from scratching too much, the first place to start is to understand why they are doing it.

Why do dogs scratch at the bed sheets?

We have grown up with dogs inside and outside the house. We also raised terriers over the last 18 years, so we have seen lots of digging, scratching and pawing. Especially with a our jack russel terrier, Thandi. She had a strong hunting instinct and really liked to get her paws on things. One thing is certain though, digging and scratching can be different for each dog. Both breed and personality make each one unique, but there are some general behaviors common to all of them. Let’s take a look.

1) Making a bed

Many dogs have a natural instinct to paw and scratch before settling down to sleep. This habit can also be observed in wild wolves as they create a sleeping spot by moving leaves, dirt, and debris. It is a very old and strong instinct to survive and not waste energy.

When it is hot, being able to rest in a bed of cool earth can help protect from the heat. When it is cold, our furry friends can bunch the bedding around them to help keep the heat in. Huskies will even bury themselves into the snow to create a nice warm cocoon. Having a nice pocket can keep them warm, even when it is very cold.

A great dog blanket to meet your dogs’ needs

2) Anxiety and stress in dogs: trying to calm down

Dogs can experience anxiety and stress just like humans, and one way they may cope with these feelings is by scratching at the sheets or other things.

Our Norwich terrier, Denver will always scratch away in his dog carrier after one of his training classes. He does that vigorously for a minute or so before settling down. It seems like he is just letting off the stress and energy from all of that hard work!

3) Boredom

A bored dog might scratch to pass the time or because they are restless. This behavior might be more common in high-energy or intelligent breeds that require more interesting mental and physical tasks.

4) Scent marking

Dogs have scent glands in their paws and may scratch as a way of leaving their mark and telling other dogs, “Here I am!” Even though we are around each other all the time, dogs can still be mysterious to us. We are learning more and more every day and one of the best authors on the subject is Dr. Alexandra Horowitz, a cognitive scientist and the author of the book “Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know” (2009) Check it out to learn more.

5) Excitement and play

Dogs often scratch and paw at surfaces during playtime, as it’s a natural way for them to engage with their environment and have fun.

6) Attention Seeking

If your dog is attention seeking, they might scratch near you or paw your leg. One clue that they are seeking attention is if they scratch, then look at you. Or if they whine or bark along with the scratching. Try and understand what they are asking for. If their behavior is disruptive, then your dog needs to learn how to ask or get your attention in another way. See the section on redirecting attention for some tips on how you and your dog can improve this!

7) Hiding and Hunting for Treasure

Some dogs will scratch around in an attempt to hide or bury food, bones, or toys. You might think there is nothing around, but when they are sniffing and pawing it could mean something is hidden and they are trying to get it! Every dog we have had does different things to protect their precious things. It is a natural instinct driven by the need to protect valuable resources.

8) Breed Instincts

Dogs might be following breed instincts to hunt, go to ground, stay cool, or keep warm. Dogs all over the world have been bred for unique instincts.

Certain breeds, such as terriers or hounds, have a strong instinct to dig or hunt, which may lead them to express those behaviors by scratching indoors.

You might also pay attention to the temperature. Some breeds like Chow Chows or Huskies might be digging as a way to stay cool. Breeds with thin coats might be burying to stay warm.

The AKC is the official resource on breed standards and would be a good starting place to learn more.

Solutions: how to stop my dog from scratching my bed sheets

With each reason above, there are many possible solutions. But your solutions will generally fall into two main areas. The first is creating spaces where they can relax and scratch away naturally. The second is redirecting them into an activity that works for both you and your pup.

Solution 1: Create safe and comfortable spaces

If they are scratching the sheets as a way to nest and settle down, then the focus is on creating a consistent calming space for them. This is very useful for anxious dogs.

It is also great just to have a place where the dog to take a break. It is familiar, has all the usual smells, comfy materials, and things that make them feel at home. Before focusing on the next solution (redirection), it is essential to have a safe space like a crate or their own sleeping area where they can always go to and feel ok. Very useful when you both need a time-out!

Solution 2: Redirect your dog. Understand what they need and focus them in a better direction

The situation and their body language can tell you a lot about why they are scratching. What happened just before? Are they totally focused on their digging or do they scratch and then look at you? Is it when they are excited, frustrated, or worried? A little attention on your part will go a long way to knowing what to do next.

Listening and learning

In some cases, like with attention seeking, it is mostly just a communication issue. In cases like these, your dog just needs a better way to tell you what they want. They also need a better way to ask.

Just like all of us, they also need to learn to handle “no” and to stop. It takes some attention on your part and some learning on their part. It may take a little trial and error, but you can work with your dog for “good” ways to ask for attention.

For example: if they scratch near you to get your attention. A better way would be for them to stand close and look at you. You will need to teach them. If they paw or scratch to get attention ignore them. The minute they stop and just look at you, reward them with a fun toy or treats and praise! Keep training until they just do it naturally.

Move to a better activity

When your dog is obsessing and totally focused on their digging activity, then it probably means they need a better outlet for their energy. If they really want to dig, they need a place to dig where it’s ok. When digging as a form of hunting, find activities that naturally involves those instincts. Look for fun ways they can use their scent, sight, and hearing to track and search for things.

Ways to stop your dog from scratching

Why they are scratching	What to do about it
For comfort: making a bed, settling down	– Create a safe, comfortable space for your dog – Provide a soft, comfortable blanket for scratching – Try a calming dog bed for anxious dogs
Separation anxiety	– Put your dog in their safe space – Gradually increase the time spent away from your dog. – Leave them goodies as you go
Boredom, excitement, playfulness	– Do something fun! – Teach them to settle on command (if they control themselves, good things happen!) – Regular walks, playtime, and training sessions – Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or chew toys
Attention seeking	– Communicate well with your dog. Find an appropriate way for them to tell you what they need (instead of barking, whining, scratching, pawing)
– Look for hidden toys, crumbs and other tidbits, or even signs of critters! – Find creative and fun ways for them to focus hiding instincts (putting toys away, a designated play area, etc) – If they are marking (leaving their paw scent), discourage this indoors and find places (outside) where they are free to scratch and mark	– Many dogs were bred with specific jobs in mind. Find ways for them to use those finely honed instincts! Designated digging areas, scent work, earthdog trials, or rally. Check out the AKC for ideas.
Breed instincts	– Many dogs were bred with specific jobs in mind. Find ways for them to use those finely honed instincts! Designated digging areas, scent work , earthdog trials, or rally. Check out the AKC for ideas.

FAQ

Wrapping up: Why does my dog scratch at my bed sheets?

In conclusion, dogs scratch at the bed sheets for a variety of reasons, such as natural instincts, boredom, anxiety, or seeking attention. Usually, it is just what dogs do! It might be based on instinct or your dog’s unique personality.

When their behavior is getting a bit much, try and determine the underlying cause of your dog’s behavior. Then you can take steps to address it and create a calmer, happier environment for both you and your furry friend. From providing mental stimulation and exercise to creating safe spaces and designated digging areas, there are numerous ways to help your dog find alternative outlets for their energy and instincts.