If you have noticed your little doxie burrowing under the blankets, your sweater sleeves, or anything warm, don’t worry! It is very common among dachshunds to feel comfortable and sleep by denning themselves into warm places.
So, are you wondering why do dachshunds like to burrow? If yes, then we have all the answers you need. Dachshunds are cute little fellows who can be under blankets all day, and this cute trait is because of genetics.
The dachshund’s body structure is long, slender, and short. Why do you think so? Because they were originally bred to dig burrows and hunt down burrowing animals. So it shouldn’t surprise you that a dachshund burrowing trait is their innate behavior.
However, there is a catch to it! If this behavior continues excessively then, there might be a problem with your four-legged friend. If you want to know more about it, then keep reading.
Why does my dog like to burrow under the blankets?
Dogs are hunters by nature, and they like to dig or chase prey in order to impress their masters. Their hunting instinct is still very strong in dogs these days. So, it is quite obvious that your dog will like to burrow under the blankets because that is their happy place!
Dogs being hunters, love to sleep in packs, and the warmth and affection they get while being squeezed keep them at peace. Since modern dogs cannot do that now, most of them burrow under blankets because they feel the same kind of peace and rest there.
Canines intuitively seek places they associate with the coziness of a den. When at home, they perceive blankets, your sleeves, duvet covers as their dens and hence like to go under them.
Another reason dogs burrow is because they are stressed. When a dog feels threatened or exhausted, they have a habit of digging blankets and going under them. You may mostly notice this behavior when your dog hears loud sounds such as the sound of bursting firecrackers.
Nevertheless, blanket-digging behavior among dogs is completely normal and even cute to look at. So, the next time you see your furry friend snuggled under a blanket, do not stop her but let her rest instead.
Do all dachshunds sleep under the covers?
Yes, most dachshunds like to sleep under the covers because of many reasons. Don’t worry because your dachshund isn’t the only one showing this trait. Here is a list of the common reasons why dachshunds like to sleep under covers:
Genetic makeup
As mentioned above, dachshunds were designed for hunting vermin, badgers, and other underground animals. This trait to dig and prey is inherent in them. Therefore, your dachshund will dig into anything she thinks is dark, warm, and cozy.
Security
If your dachshund feels threatened at any point in time, she will immediately scoop under your blankets or your any pile of clothes, for that matter. They feel secure when covered by things they feel can protect them.
Since dachshunds always preyed in packs, they are used to the coziness and warmth of sleeping in packs. They get such a feeling when they go under the blanket.
Sense of achievement
Dachshunds are working dogs, and hence they want to always be on the move. When a dachshund has been lazing all day, they feel the need to expel the built-up energy into something productive. Therefore, they feel that by digging the blanket and going under it, they’ve accomplished a big task.
Also, they may think that their masters will praise them for a job well done. Dachshunds crave attention and will always try to impress their owners.
Comfort
Just like humans, dogs will find comfort when under blankets too. Dachshunds like to sleep in enclosed spaces rather than big beds. They feel most comfortable when scooped under a blanket or the sheets.
Therefore, if you have a dachshund, then getting a burrow bed is a good choice. You will find your dachshund happier in a small burrow bed rather than a gigantic, fancy bed.
Can dogs suffocate under a blanket?
The chances of dogs suffocating under a blanket is very rare, but it is not impossible. In fact, there was a case where a dachshund died of suffocation under a blanket because the owner tucked the blanket under the mattress unknowingly.
But, let this story not scare you because the chances are 1 in a million. Dogs are smart and intelligent, so they know when something feels wrong. Even if they are under the blanket, they will quickly pop their nose out if they feel suffocated.
Also, the good news is that dachshunds have a larger lung capacity than most other dogs. Hence, the chances of a dachshund feeling suffocated under a blanket are almost zero.
A quick reminder here is to make sure not to tuck the blankets under the mattress if your dog has a habit of sleeping under covers.
Should I let my dachshund burrow?
Yes, you can safely allow your cute friend to burrow anywhere she likes. However, there are some signs you should watch out for:
- Burrowing excessively every day
- Being possessive of her burrowing blanket
- Restlessness even when under the covers
- Aggressive towards anybody who hoes near her den
Dachshunds are sensitive dogs, so if you notice any of these signs, then there may be a problem. You must investigate these changes and study her properly to diagnose the problem. It may be because of separation anxiety if they are new to the place or because they feel threatened in the space.
Conclusion
Dachshunds like to burrow anywhere they like. They may even dig up holes in your backyard, looking for small animals. Whatever it may be, don’t stop your dachshund from burrowing because it’s an activity they love.
You should be careful if there are kids at home since they may jump on the bed when your pup is under the blanket. There should be strict rules in place when you have small kids and a dachshund at home.
