Why Does My Dog Sleep Under My Bed

why does my dog sleep under my bed

Did you ever wonder why does my dog sleep under my bed? It can be confusing for an owner when his dog changes its habits out of the blue and starts sleeping under the bed.

It might cause your concern especially when you are not used to it and don’t find your dog when you wake up.

However, sleeping under the bed is not unusual behavior for a dog. For the dog, it’s a small, contained area that is dark and private. Probably the dogs sleep under the bed to feel safe and comfortable. But every dog has its specific reasons to find refuge under the bed.

Why Does My Dog Sleep Under My Bed – 9 Reasons!

In this article, we will find out the several reasons that will justify why your dog starts sleeping under the bed. Some of these reasons may be more concerning than others. Let’s have a look at them:

Your Dog Is Not Feeling Well

If your dog is trying to sleep under your bed then there is a possibility that it is seeking solitude. Dogs may hide when the surroundings are unfamiliar to them. Probably, your dog hiding or sleeping under the bed to avoid interaction with the other family members or other pets in the house because they need to protect themselves from the potential harm.

This can be because it is not in the mood for cuddling and playing with your other pets. There is also the possibility that the dog is not feeling well because of stomach issues, joint pain, or neck pain.

Your Dog Is Afraid of Something

Fear is another reason for heading under the bed to sleep. Your dog could be hiding under the bed because he has heard a scary sound like thunder or rumble.

Also, dogs have abilities to react to sounds that are inaudible to us. Therefore, the dogs may seek refuge under the bed for a quieter and hiding place.

Your Dog Is Looking For a Den

Dogs enjoy sleeping in cave-like places that somewhat resemble a den. Maybe your dog has recently discovered how cosy and comfortable this area is under the bed and doesn’t want to be bothered by any other areas in the house where there is more traffic. Look for signs that your dog is happy when it is sleeping under your bed because then it can be a regular, normal behavior.

Dogs seek these private, dark, and cosy areas because they feel more protected, safe and secure there.

Your Dog Wants Company

If you do not allow the dog to sleep on the bed, it may choose to sleep in a place near you. By sleeping under the bed, your dog can keep tabs on you. He may find comfort under the bed because it has your scent.

Your scent and fragrance provide a sense of familiarity and reassurance to the dogs. It may also prove as a calming effect for your dog.

Read Also:- 5 Ways Pets Are Improving Their Owners’ Lives

Your Dog Is Going Through Anxiety, Sickness or Pain

Dogs also seek comfort by hiding or sleeping under the bed when they are anxious, sick or in pain. The space under the bed is a protected, dark, and enclosed area where your dog feels safe. They instantly need a den-like space when they are feeling unwell and insecure from potential threats or perceived dangers.

Your Dog Needs a Break

Your dog gets easily overwhelmed by too much activity and may be required a break at times especially when they are getting older. There could be several reasons for that like you may have your friends or kids over or other puppies and pets.

Your dog may be hoping for some personal space for hiding and ends up sleeping under your bed. Dogs appreciate quiet and solitude and by hiding under the bed they can retreat from noise, commotion or other disruptions happening at the house.

Your Dog Is Resource Guarding

If you find that your dog is sleeping under the bed with a bone, toy or anything he found on the floor, he may be engaged in resource-guarding behavior. Dogs like to guard the things that they find most valuable and attractive.

In this condition, your dog may growl, stiffen, or even bite when you try to approach them while they are having something in their possession.

Some of the dogs may also guard the places they like or find interesting. It is better to stay away from the dog when they are resource-guarding because it may lead to a bite.

Your Dog Is Hot or Cold

The place under your bed may offer a cooler or warmer environment depending on the season and the temperature of your home.

Naturally, dogs want the areas that will provide the most comfortable temperatures. Your dog may be sleeping under the bed to find relief from the heat or during the winters there may be a rug or carpet under the bed that can provide extra warmth to your dog.

Changes in Appetite and Sleep Patterns

Dogs may also start sleeping under the beds because they are changing their appetite and sleep patterns like decreased appetite, loss of interest in food and disruptions in sleep cycles. The loss of appetite may be due to health conditions like gastrointestinal parasites or congenital problems that may decrease the appetite or prevent them from eating large amounts of food.

Conclusion

Sleeping under the bed is typically not risky for dogs and it provides them with a sense of security and comfort. The dogs usually make use of the space under the bed to enter and exit comfortably. It is rare when a dog gets stuck under the bed. If you are worried about this behavior, keep an eye on your dog and monitor for any signs of discomfort and anxiety.