If so this peculiar act may have you scratching your own head wondering why.
Why does my dog scratch the carpet before she lays down.
In the wild predators can take advantage of this vulnerable position and having a fellow pack member on the lookout is helpful.
If you ve spied your dog scratching pawing or even biting at his bed before lying down it may seem like an odd way to settle in for a nap.
As is the case with most dog behavior analysis there are varied opinions on the subject from a multitude of sources and experts.
I have a 6month old chow and lately he has been scratching the carpet before he lays down i have never seen a dog do this only cats is this normal.
We all have our special bedtime rituals and so do our pets.
Some dogs scratch the floor before lying down to enhance the comfort of their sleeping area.
There is a general consensus among dog behaviorists that.
Other times it may be an interesting smell that compels your dog to dig at a particular location before he rolls in it much as he would do outside in the dirt.
For instance have you ever noticed scruffy scratching your floors before laying down for a nap or at bedtime.
These actions are of course futile when done today especially on a flat surface such as a modern dog bed and are therefore characterized as vestigial.
In cool areas dogs may scratch the floor to create a cozy warm den to curl up in.
There may be simple explanations as to why some dogs may engage in this behavior.
This way the dog would form a comfortable surface for resting and would make a nice spot to conceal from other animals.
By maintaining eye contact with you your dog is probably trying to make sure you re on the lookout for predators while he s relieving himself.
Scratching the floor before lying down also helps dogs find the most comfortable position in which to rest.
Sometimes it may be as simple as him scratching to dig up that single crumb of food that fell in between the carpet threads.
Why do dogs scratch the floor before lying down.
The number one purpose that staring at you while doing number two serves for dogs is protection and security.
Scratching and digging into bedding a sofa cushion or a chair before lying down is just one of those seemingly oddball things that dogs do.
Why does my dog scratch the carpet before he lays down.
What is the best type of flooring for pets learning center source.
Another funny yet adorable behavior is circling round and round before settling themselves down.