- Many dogs frequently hide beneath beds, tables, or other pieces of furniture.
- Dogs may hide behind objects out of fear, discomfort, or just a need for privacy.
- If your dog begins to hide when they previously never did, it could mean that something is wrong.
Have you ever questioned why your dog hides under the bed or a table so much? There are a number of potential causes for this typical dog behavior, some of which are more worrying than others. There are a few potential causes if your dog insists on hiding beneath the bed or a table.
They Love Private Spaces
Many dogs find sheltering out of sight under a bed or table to be a personal safe haven.
According to San Diego, California-based Jessika Jake, a CATCH Canine Academy certified dog trainer, “That’s their fun little fort to relax in.
According to Jake, her Pomeranian is constantly looking for new hiding places close to her house. She does, however, add that a dog might find solace in the solidity of a bed or table. Dogs can rely on specific spots to stay unchanged, unlike a mat or chair that may be frequently replaced.
They’re Afraid
“According to Jake, dogs enjoy finding a hiding place when something threatening is happening. “Where they like to hide out can be a bed or table.
Your dog could get scared by anything, including fireworks and loud car alarms. Every time she heard fireworks, she would give Jake’s dog goodies to help calm his anxious thoughts. Her dog ultimately grew accustomed to anticipating a treat whenever he heard loud noises after enough practice.
Jake advises speaking softly to your dog to assist reassure them when they’re scared. Try eliminating them from the environment next. Get them away from whatever is frightening them to a safe place.
They’re Physically Ill or Injured
Jake’s dog took refuge behind the toilet after getting stung by a bee. If your dog is hiding and this is not normal behavior, check to see if they are feeling okay. Visit your veterinarian to get an evaluation of the problem at the first indication of any illness or injury symptoms.
They’re Looking For Food
The reason dogs spend so much time, in instance, under the kitchen table, is frequently simple to understand. In other words, they are aware that food might be there.
They know they’re going to receive it if you have a dog that enjoys watching you prepare and consume food. They find interest in things like that, according to Jake.
Train them to leave the room while you cook or dine, and give them goodies as a reward, to prevent them from loitering or beggining.
They’ve Found Something They Shouldn’t Have
Your dog may be attempting to hide a treat or food item under a bed or table after discovering it on the floor. Some dogs will consume such meals by themselves in order to have it all to themselves.
Her dog once hid behind a coworker’s desk, according to Jake, after snatching a typically banned blueberry off the floor.
They Sense a Change in the Environment
When you have guests over to your usually fairly peaceful home, your dog could hide to find a quiet location. Dogs accustomed to calm homes frequently find themselves surrounded by other dogs and humans and simply want to get away from the noise. When the environment has restored to normal, dogs that have been hiding under beds for these reasons frequently come out.
“Jake claims that they frequently don’t want any social interaction. “It may be a signal that “I’m done playing.”
How To Get Your Dog Not To Hide Under Things
One strategy is to teach your dog a new behavior in order to get them to quit hiding under things so often. Ignore your dog if it is hiding beneath the bed. However, reward them when they’re lying on a mat or rug. If you persist, your dog will probably ultimately pick up new behaviors.
Reward your desires. What you don’t want, ignore. Jake claims that when they know you appreciate something, they prefer to flaunt it.
Know Your Dog
Learn about your dog and what is and is not normal, advises Jake. Take note if they start hiding under tables out of the blue if that’s a new behavior. It can indicate a stressed-out dog or serve as a signal that anything is amiss. If you think your dog might not be feeling well, get them checked out as soon as you can at the vet.
Do you need assistance training your dog? In spite of the fact that you might not be able to attend live training sessions during COVID-19, we are still available to you electronically through the AKC GoodDog! Helpline. With the help of this live telephone service, you may speak with a qualified trainer who will provide you with unrestricted, personalized advise on anything from behavioral problems to CGC preparation to getting started in dog sports.
Should my dog be allowed to snooze under the bed?
You’ve probably discovered your dog several times hiding beneath your bed. It is a location that she feels safe in, whether she is hiding, sleeping, or relaxing there. You might be wondering why your dog enjoys hiding in the tiny space under your bed, though. The comfort is the most frequent explanation for this. Dogs prefer cramped areas because they feel safe and secure there, which is relaxing. Along with the new carpet, they might also appreciate the temperature that is established in that tiny area. There shouldn’t be any cause for concern if this applies to your dog. Your dog is merely attempting to locate a relaxing location in your home. However, your dog can be beneath your bed for other reasons. Your dog will always want to feel secure, and sometimes that means hiding beneath the bed. Your dog might hide under the bed if there is any kind of disturbance in your home in an effort to find comfort and protection. It is best to make sure your dog is not physically hurt or ill if your home is not in complete chaos. When they have body ailments, dogs will occasionally hide under beds and use that area as a safe haven. They naturally do that because they are dogs. In addition to these few causes, your dog’s behavior may also be due to worry and fear. Thunderstorms and other loud noises, as well as stressful events that are present around your dog, can cause anxiety and fear. They have a cozy and peaceful retreat in the tiny space under your bed, hidden from view. When the time comes, this can help children cope with their worry and anxiety, and the bed can shield them from any tension or commotion going on at home.
My dog sleeps under his dog bed, why?
Your dog may be snoozing under your bed for a number of reasons. It’s important to determine why if sleeping under the bed is a new tendency.
They Want Privacy
A dog may occasionally opt to lay under a bed for seclusion. Having a private room may help your dog feel more at ease if your home is busy or has undergone changes. Your dog might find a calm, cozy, and predictable area to sleep under the bed.
They’re Afraid of Something
Your dog can be using the area under your bed as a hiding place if it is scared of anything. They might be using the area under the bed as a secure hiding place if it’s raining, noisy outside or inside, they hear fireworks, there’s a new resident in the house, or it’s storming.
I speak in a calming tone when my dog is terrified of anything to help it feel better. It could be possible to get your dog out from under the bed by removing the frightening object.
They’re Sick or Hurt
Your dog may be hiding as a coping mechanism for negative feelings. They find solace in hiding under your bed when they don’t know why they’re feeling poorly. A visit to the vet should be on your schedule if you can’t think of any other clear causes for why they are now sleeping under your bed.
Other indications that your dog is ill or in discomfort include:
- growling and snarling
- yelling at you or other people
- Hiding in a place you can’t get to
- being sluggish
- losing interest in food
- diarrhea and gagging
- urinating and defecating indoors
They Have Something or Have Done Something They Shouldn’t
Dogs are aware of their inappropriate behavior. They frequently conceal out of embarrassment or to commit an act of shame. It’s possible that your dog is hiding something they shouldn’t have if they lie under the bed.
Do dogs prefer to sleep on their owners’ beds?
Dogs and their owners frequently sleep together. In fact, close to 50% of dog owners let their puppies sleep in their beds. There are a lot of variables at play, including dog owners just taking pleasure in a good cuddle with their furry buddy.
Dogs live by the pack mentality in the wild. This implies that they always live in close quarters and eat, sleep, and travel together. Being around their pack makes them feel protected on an instinctual level. Once a dog moves into your house, you join their pack. Because you make them feel secure and at ease, they like sleeping with you.
Dogs and their owners form an emotional bond when sleeping together. Dogs have the same love and gratitude for you as you do for them. Spending time together can strengthen your relationship and demonstrate to your dog that you are a comfort to them.
How do dogs pick their sleeping partners?
Your new mattress was chosen in what manner? Did you go to a City Mattress store, lay on a few of them, and choose the one that seemed the most comfortable? Or perhaps you made your decision based on a trusted brand name. The comfort feel or material type that best suits your needs may have even been recommended to you by a Sleep Expert at one of our stores. Your dog has a favorite place to sleep, just like you do (probably your new mattress). Your dog doesn’t choose this depending on whether he favors latex or innerspring coils, unlike your previous excursion to the mattress store. Therefore, the question is: How do dogs choose where to sleep?
Your Dog is Guided by Scent
Understanding that dogs approach the environment nose-first is one of the most crucial aspects of how they choose a spot to sleep. Although dogs have more than 220 million olfactory receptors in their nose—over four times as many as humans—they can not sense colors as vividly as we do. They smell around for one while we hunt for an area that seems comfortable. You’re not alone if your dog like cuddling and sleeping next to you. Many dogs pick a place to sleep because it smells like their owner, or the pack leader. Great if this is your bed with you! If not, they’ll go for the next best thing—a location where your scent is present.
Your Dog Likes a “Den
Environments have a huge role, too. Researchers and animal experts are keen to point out that dogs are pack animals by nature. In dens, their untamed forefathers slept. For this reason, you may observe contemporary dogs unwinding beneath a table, a tree, or even your desk as you conduct business from home. Whether there is danger outside or not, your pet likes to feel secure when he sleeps.
Now, It’s Time to Spruce up the Spot!
Dogs enjoy setting up their bed once they have found the ideal location. You’ll frequently witness your dog preparing for a nap by scratching the area, shifting blankets, or pushing pillows with their nose. Another practice from their untamed ancestors is this endearing rite. The hot or damp topsoil was scraped away by these prehistoric dogs to expose the cooler, drier earth below. It’s how they feel at ease. Consider it as their way of slipping into some luxurious cotton bedding.
Introducing…Your Pet’s New Bed Through City Mattress
The Sferra Lettino Dog Bed is now offered by us. This dog bed offers the features that dogs seek in a sleeping area. It has a high-loft cushion and festival linen that is either small or medium in size and is crisply fitted. Put it there if you think it will make them feel secure, enclosed, and at ease, such as a corner, beneath your bed, or adjacent to the couch. You could even put a sock on it or spray your perfume on it to have your favorite person’s scent permeate his new bed. It’s the mattress of your dog’s dreams! Either gray or a neutral hue is an option. You will enjoy this cover because it is convenient to remove and wash and is comfy for your dog.
You’ll get a call after making your online order to arrange a convenient delivery time. Finally, your dog will have his favorite allocated sleeping area. It’s time for your four-legged pal to start sleeping like a family member! Your dog will enjoy the comfort and luxury the Sferra Lettino dog bed offers.
Your Dog’s Health
Point: Climbing on the bed for your dog can be very difficult if they suffer from musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis, and soft bedding are not supportive enough for aging joints. Dogs in pain can prefer soft padding to a firm surface that is low to the ground. Furthermore, senior dogs may develop incontinence. When the dog lies down, its weak, older bladder leaks. Wet bed sheets, oh no!
In contrast, you can pick up and put your small, arthritic dog on the bed. You might offer a ramp or stairs if he’s big to make getting on the bed simpler. If your dog does not wriggle off of the pee pads that you put on the bed, the sheets will remain dry.
A dog may feel lonely if it spends a lot of time alone while its human family members are out at work or school. Seeing his family can help him reestablish a crucial bond.
Your Health
Point: Some people have allergies that are specifically to dogs. Long-term close proximity to dogs exposes people to pet dander, which can cause respiratory issues. However, co-sleeping with a dog might worsen allergic symptoms in people who do not have pet allergies. Dogs outside attract dust and pollen, which can make people’s allergies worse. The allergy reactions may last even after the dog has left the bedroom since they may leave that dander, pollen, and dust on the bed linens.
Contradiction: A healthy daily routine may help reduce the quantity of dust and pollen your dog brings inside by wiping him with a moist towel before he enters the house. Your exposure to allergens will be decreased by bathing your dog, installing HEPA filters in your home, and frequently cleaning your bed linens, which can allow your dog to reclaim his seat on the bed.
Point: Some dog owners find it difficult to fall asleep when their dog is in the bed. When their dog turns over, kicks, or scratches, light sleepers are roused. Some people find it annoying when their dog snores excessively. Lack of sleep can impair your immune system and make you cranky, which can harm your general health. Even when they have a restless night, dogs do not experience sleep deprivation because they have time to snooze during the day and make up for missed time spent sleeping at night.
Contrary: Whenever you train your dog to sleep at your feet, the commotion caused if he moves throughout the night may be minimized. Many dog owners find that cuddling up next to their furry pals improves their sense of security and their quality of sleep. Dogs can reduce tension and blood pressure while also tending to soothe individuals.
Dogs also provide a feeling of security. The knowledge that their canine companion will alert them to a nocturnal emergency, such as a fire or an intruder, may help heavy sleepers sleep more soundly. Insomniacs can also sleep better thanks to dogs. People who have trouble falling asleep claim that their dog’s regular breathing puts them to sleep. Additionally, those who typically sleep alone find it more comfortable to lie next to a warm live thing. Whatever the cause, having a dog can improve sleep, which is very beneficial for one’s health.
Point: Ticks, fleas, and several intestinal parasites that cause disease in humans are carried by dogs. Human exposure to these parasites and vector-borne illnesses is increased when sleeping with a dog. People who are really young, old, or have weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to infection.
Contrary: Your veterinarian can prescribe broad-spectrum parasite control that works year-round to protect both you and your dog from parasites and vector-borne diseases (common products include Heartgard Plus, Simparica or Simparica Trio, Nexgard or Nexgard Spectra, Interceptor or Interceptor Plus, and Revolution Plus, to name a few).
Do I want to sleep with my dog?
You are in excellent company if you do. Many folks don’t have any issues with their pets sleeping on their beds. According to research, nearly half of dogs sleep alongside their owners, making bed sharing a common practice.
When it comes to sharing a bed, size counts. Approximately 62% of tiny dogs, 41% of medium-sized dogs, and 32% of large dogs are permitted to sleep with their human families. It seems that people are willing to share their beds, but simply not all of them.
Does my dog want to sleep with me?
From a dog’s point of view, some dogs find it too hot to sleep in beds and would rather lie on a cool floor. Some people prefer to switch rooms numerous times throughout the night, sleeping first on the kitchen floor, then the bathroom mat, and finally the sofa. It’s simpler if you sleep on the ground. Additionally, some humans have trouble sleeping, which causes their dogs to wake up.
While some dogs prefer to lie on the bed with their owners, others do not. They are a little bit too serious about owning the bed. Your dog may be kicked off the bed if he overly aggressively guards the bed or a human member of the family.
Should my dog sleep in my bed?
Dogs typically comprehend that they are not the family’s top dog. People’s size advantage over dogs is a factor in that social system. A dog and his owner are on the same level when resting on the bed, which may encourage the dog to display aggressive tendencies.
Some dogs overreact when startled even when they are not hostile. Your pet may not have intended to bite you if you rolled over in bed and startled him, but an inadvertent bite nevertheless hurts just as much as an intentional one. However, co-sleeping should be alright if neither you nor your dog has any health problems or behavioral concerns that would make doing so unhealthy for either of you. Rest well!
