If you have a dog, you know about the digging problem. You’re all set to sleep, and you hear a sound. Your dachshund is digging the bed.
Sometimes they settle down, and sometimes they dig it for hours. It may seem cute at first but have you wondered why do dachshunds dig the bed?
Why Do Dachshunds Dig The Bed
There are many reasons why dachshunds dig. It can be their natural behavior or an uncomfortable bed. It can also hint at an anxiety issue.
Let’s look at the reasons and what you can do to stop the digging.
1. Natural Instincts
The most common reason why dachshunds dig the bed is their natural instinct. Unlike today, dogs used to live in the wild thousands of years ago. They did not have the comfort of a bed or home or caretaker like you.
Their life was tough. Digging was an excellent way to hunt for animals living below the ground. Dachshunds, in particular, used to seek badgers. Dogs also used to dig to maintain temperatures and for fun.
While times have changed, most dogs still have natural instinctive behavior to dig. As long as it is not too much, it’s okay. All you got to do is make your dog busy.
2. Dachshunds Love to Dig
Dachshunds have deep-rooted hunting instincts. That’s why they love digging. Humans bred dachshunds to chase and hunt badgers for centuries.
Dachshunds used their long bodies to squeeze into the badger holes. They are fearless. Dachshund’s ancestors have hunted deer, foxes, and other dangerous canine animals. They are family dogs, but they still have those badger dog instincts.
Most times, dachshunds dig because of their natural behavior. Some dachshunds dig flowerbeds if they suspect a rodent or a rat. They’re full of energy and may use digging as a way to spend it.
3. Boredom
Dachshunds are energetic dogs and need some stimulation every day. Therefore, they will get occupied if you cannot play with them. For example, they might dig in the bed or the yard.
Sometimes they might also steal your remote and bury it somewhere. The list of notorious activities is endless. But, it all comes down to one sign: your dachshund needs attention.
Dachshunds may resort to destructive behavior if left bored. For example, they made scratch the bed when they’re alone at home. If you’re someone who goes to the office every day, you might need something to keep your dog busy.
4. Out of Curiosity
While dogs may dig because of their nature and boredom, it’s not always true. Sometimes dogs dig when they sense some food, animal, or bugs beneath the bed. This is because dogs have a fantastic sense of smell.
If they smell something and get curious, they might keep digging until they find what it is. Believe it or not, it can be for hours.
If you find your dog digging, it’s time to check for rats and bugs. You can also see if there’s some leftover food you forgot to throw. Dogs also hide their favorite toys to keep them safe. You might find one of them under your mattress.
5. Uncomfortable Bed
Dogs also like a comfortable place to sleep like us. They want the place to be warm and comfortable.
So if your dachshund is digging the bed before sleep, it is to make it comfortable. They may also scratch it.
If you’re wondering whether dachshunds can sleep outside, check out that article.
6. Anxiety
Dachshunds dig when they’re anxious or lonely. You should check your dog’s mental health to see if this behavior is abnormal. Also, look out for other signs of anxiety.
They may howl or bark when you’re not at home. They may hide in the corner of the house or escape to the yard. Dogs dig to relieve themselves from anxiety.
Stress can be related to an unsafe environment or separation anxiety. It can also mean that your furry friend needs either a human or a dog company. It’s best to visit a veterinary doctor if your dog stops eating.
There are many more reasons why dachshunds dig the bed. The good thing is you can distract your dog and train them in a way that stops their digging.
If your dachshund is shaking when sleeping, you can check out that blog.
7 Ways to Stop Your Dachshunds from Digging their bed
Small steps can help stop your dachshund from digging into the bed. They might not stop it altogether, but they can reduce the frequency. If you think your story is like what we’ve told, we have some easy tricks for you.
1. More Exercise and Playtime
Exercising can be a great way to engage your dachshund. For example, you can go out for a walk or play frisbee. You can also take your dog running with you.
You can also teach them how to run along with a bike. Since dachshunds have adventurous behavior, they might love doing it. So not only digging, but you can also solve many behavior problems.
The more your dogs exercise, the more it is likely to get tired. This is because apart from physical exercise, you also need to do mental stimulation.
2. Invest in Puzzles and Toys
Dog toys are crucial. Toys can calm your dog and help in behavior modification. Having puzzles and toys that help in mental stimulation can do wonders.
Interactive toys like Kong Classic or puzzles can keep your dachshund curious. Dachshunds are curious about hidden treats. You can get a slow feeder bowl or a carpet to hide the treats.
Toys are a great way to foster the human-animal bond. If your dachshund is a puppy, you can get a chew toy. That will keep it busy and entertained.
3. Make a Digging Place For Dachshunds
It’s okay if your dachshund is digging because of instincts. You can create a digging place. So every time they dig the bed or couch, you can teach them not to dig there and go to the digging site.
Use a designated area in your backyard as a dig pit. Once you have created the dig pit, you should encourage your dog to use it. You can hide treats and toys there.
You can also take a small wooden stick (which dogs love) and dig yourself to show. Your dachshund will join you as soon as it understands. You can also treat your dog every time he uses the dig pit.
4. Give Positive Obedience Training
It’s okay if your dachshund is digging because of instincts. You can create a digging place. So every time they dig the bed or couch, you can teach them not to dig there and go to the digging site.
Use a designated area in your backyard as a dig pit. Once you have created the dig pit, you should encourage your dog to use it. You can hide treats and toys there.
You can also take a small wooden stick (which dogs love) and dig yourself to show. Your dachshund will join you as soon as it understands. You can also treat your dog every time he uses the dig pit.
5. Create a Safe Home Environment
You will have to create a safe home environment for your dog. You must ensure your furry friend that nothing will happen to it.
You will have to give a comfortable, clean, dry, and quiet place where your dog can rest. Further, know what scares them the most and help your dog overcome it.
6. Get An Additional Dog
This might sound a little strange, but a dog friend for your dog can also be the solution. Sometimes dogs are lonely and need someone to play with. Also, if your dog’s separation anxiety is from losing a canine friend, then another dog can help!
Get this, though. Your dog may not enjoy the company of another dog. Unfortunately, this may also lead to aggression and tussling between two dogs. Therefore, you should get a dog that doesn’t make your dachshund angry and possessive.
7. Seek Medical Help
If you’ve tried everything else and nothing is working, it’s time to get medical help. This is the best possible solution for a frustrated dachshund.
Anxiety, when left unattended, can lead to shocking behavior. Dogs may also run away from home or self-harm themselves.
Is It Normal for Dachshunds to Dig the Bed or Couch?
Yes, it is normal for a dachshund to dig the bed, couch, or yard. Dachshunds are hunting breeds. They have killed foxes, badgers, and many dangerous animals in history.
Their digging habit can be a natural instinct to search for prey. Or, they are doing it for fun. But, you should look out for something unusual in their behavior.
FAQ
Why do dachshunds dig holes?
Dachshunds dig holes because of their hunting instinct. Dachshunds are a hunting breed. Humans trained dachshunds to hunt badgers and other burrow animals for centuries.
Should I shout at dachshunds for digging the bed?
No, you should not shout at dachshunds for digging the bed. There are many ways you can stop them from digging. For instance, you can take them for a walk. You can also get them an interactive toy or create a dig pit.
Should dachshunds sleep in bed with humans?
No, Dachshunds should have their bed to take rest and sleep. This way, they will know their boundaries.
Although, some owners would like their dachshunds to sleep with them. That’s okay too. But make sure you make all the safety arrangements first.
How do dogs know their bed is theirs?
Dogs often sniff the bed to look for their owner’s or favorite human’s smell. That’s why they also love when you give them your bedsheet.
Final Words
Raising a dachshund can be challenging. Seeing a dachshund dig the bed and destroy furniture daily can be even more irritating. Remember that it is a natural instinct to dig.
But, it is not something that you should neglect. The Dachshund is a hunting breed. Dachshunds digging habits can signal a potential health issue or a rat problem at your house.
So, the next time you see your dachshund dig the bed, make sure to get to the root cause of the problem.