Why do dogs tear up their beds? Remember the last time you just bought a plush, comfortable bed for your furry friend, hoping to give them a cozy haven for a good night’s sleep? All you wanted was to be the best pet parent, but when you come home, you find the new bed in tatters, with bits of stuffing strewn across the room.
Frustrating, right? There’s no way you can return that bed now…another $60 out the window!
Many dog owners have experienced this scenario, leaving them wondering why their beloved pets engage in such destructive behavior.
Hope is not lost. Jax, my chihuahua now loves his personally scratched bed.
In this article, let’s dig into the reasons behind why dogs tear up their beds and how to prevent it…or not.
Why Do Dogs Tear Up Their Beds?
Before we get into the solutions, here’s why dogs even engage in this type of bed-tearing behavior, to begin with…
Instinctual Behavior
Dogs are descendants from wolves (or, as some recent research says, they have the same general ancestor as today’s wolves) , and their natural instincts often drive their actions. They have an inherent desire to ‘nest’ or create a comfortable spot for themselves.
In the wild, this behavior would involve digging a shallow hole in the ground to rest in. Tearing up their bed might be an expression of this instinct.
Boredom and Anxiety
Just like humans, dogs can get bored or anxious when left alone for extended periods. When that happens, they may tear up their beds as a form of entertainment or to alleviate anxiety. It’s a way for them to release pent-up energy and stress.
Teething and Chewing
For puppies, teething is a painful process, and chewing provides relief. Puppies particularly tear up their beds as part of their teething process because chewing helps soothe their sore gums.
How to Prevent Your Dog from Destroying Their Bed
Now that we understand why dogs engage in this behavior, here are some helpful tips to prevent them from tearing up their beds…and, inevitably, your wallet.
Speaking of your wallet…FYI, this section of the post includes affiliate links. If you buy anything through these links. DogVills earns a commission at no extra cost to you.
1. Choose Durable Beds
Invest in a high-quality, durable bed designed to withstand a dog’s natural instincts to dig and chew.
Look for options made from tough materials like ballistic nylon or reinforced stitching.
Selecting a sturdy bed from the start can save you money in the long run and prevent your dog from destroying their sleeping space.
Here are a few of our favorites:
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2. Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation
A tired dog is a happy dog.
Give your dog enough physical exercise through daily walks, playtime, or visits to a dog park.
Additionally, engage your dog’s mind with puzzle toys or training sessions. A stimulated dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors out of boredom or anxiety.
Check out a few of our favorite interactive dog toys:
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3. Teach Appropriate Chewing Habits
For puppies and dogs that enjoy chewing, provide plenty of appropriate chew toys.
You can redirect their chewing behavior towards toys meant for that purpose. Encourage them to chew on toys, bones, or dental chews to satisfy their need to gnaw.
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4. Positive Reinforcement
When your dog behaves well around their bed, offer praise and rewards. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in encouraging desired behavior.
Whenever your dog uses their bed without destroying it, give them treats or affection.
5. Supervise and Crate Train
If your dog has a history of bed destruction, consider supervising them when they’re near their bed until the behavior subsides.
Crate training can also be helpful, as it provides a secure space where your dog can’t access their bed to tear it up.
There are many durable crate mats you can find so you don’t feel guilty about your pooch sleeping directly on a plastic tray.
6. Address Anxiety
If your dog’s bed-tearing behavior is rooted in anxiety, consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviorist.
They can help identify the underlying causes of anxiety and recommend appropriate treatment, training, or an anti-anxiety product like dog treats infused with CBD (like the Vet Naturals treats shown below) or a calming pheromone-scented product.
Dog Trainer and Vet Tech, Alix Mitchell of Not A Bully, even suggests leaving the tv on or letting your dog jam to some tunes on the radio, “Some dogs are calm and comfortable at home, and they only get spooked when they hear noises outside. Any strange noise can cause them to become stressed or anxious. Leaving the TV or a radio on when you’re gone will help mask any sounds from outside.“
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7. Just Accept It
While a dog’s bed-tearing behavior can be frustrating, understanding the reasons behind it is the first step towards finding a happy solution.
For me, I simply accepted the fact that my dog needed to “break in” his bed.
Just imagine what you do when you settle in for the night. You might rustle the sheets, fluff up your pillows, or even pound pillows flat for comfort.
Getting your bed just right becomes a nightly ritual. Consider the same need for your dog who doesn’t quite have the dexterity of ten fingers.
Conclusion
Dogs engage in this bed-tearing due to instinct, boredom, anxiety, or teething. By choosing a durable bed, providing mental and physical stimulation, and teaching appropriate chewing habits, you can help prevent your furry friend from destroying their sleeping space.
In my instance, I don’t buy beds that are exceptionally plush or have a furry surface material that a lot of bolster dog beds for crates are made of because I know most of that surface fur becomes temporary tumbleweeds throughout my home.
Remember, patience and positive reinforcement are key to successfully curbing this habit.
And if all else fails, seeking advice from a professional dog trainer or behavior specialist can provide valuable insights and guidance. Your dog’s comfort, your peace of mind, and your budget are worth the effort.
Common FAQs about Dog Bed-Tearing
Let’s go over a few common questions about dogs and their beds.
Why do dogs tear up their beds?
It can be one or a combination of several reasons like a natural nesting instinct, boredom, anxiety, and teething.
How can I get my dog to stop tearing up their bed?
You can try to pivot the negative behavior to more positive ones with either activity or a better selection of dog products. For example, providing interactive toys, using a crate with a thin mat, incorporating more physical activity to exhaust your dog, or just accepting the behavior as-is with a bed that has a scratch-resistant surface.
How do I get a bed that doesn’t tear?
Read the product listing thoroughly. If it’s filled with polyester fiber, it’s usually a no-go.
Some dog companies will explicitly state “Pet bed is not ideal for excessive chewers” to help you discern whether or not their products are right for your dog.
You could also buy a bed with a scratch-resistant surface or resort to a thin pad in a crate.
In conclusion, dogs tearing up their beds can stem from a variety of reasons including boredom, anxiety, teething, or simply the joy of digging and burrowing. Understanding the root cause of this behavior is essential in addressing the issue effectively.
By providing ample exercise, mental stimulation, and appropriate chewing toys, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of your dog destroying their bed. Additionally, investing in a durable dog bed and gradually training your dog to view their bed as a place for relaxation can help mitigate this behavior.
Remember, patience and consistency are key. Every dog is unique, and finding the right combination of strategies that work for your furry friend might take some time. However, with the right approach, you can ensure your dog enjoys their bed without turning it into a pile of fluff.
Keeping your dog happy, engaged, and well-rested not only saves their bed from destruction but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet, making for a happier, healthier home environment for everyone.
Why do you think dogs tear up their beds? Is your pup a bed-shredding machine? Share your experiences and thoughts below!
