When we think of digging dogs, our thoughts often immediately go to a dog digging up the garden to bury a bone or digging in the sand at the beach to get to something tasty that someone dropped. But dogs can engage in digging behaviors in all kinds of environments, including some unexpected places like in their crates.<\/p>\n
This odd behavior can be cute or annoying depending on the dog and the owner, but understanding why a dog might be digging in their crate is key to determining if this is an issue that needs attention.<\/p>\n
So why do dogs dig in their crate?<\/p>\n
Dogs are likely digging in their crate to get more comfortable, an instinctual behavior attributed to digging dens. In some cases, crate digging can also be related to anxiety behaviors, a training issue, or because there is something in or underneath the crate that the dog is trying to get to.<\/strong><\/p>\n Below we\u2019ll discuss some of the possible reasons as to why your pup might be digging in their crate and whether it\u2019s something to be concerned about or not.<\/p>\n We\u2019ll also look at the differences between crate digging and crate scratching, and how puppies might engage in the behavior a little differently than adult dogs. Finally, we\u2019ll discuss some possible ways to help stop the behavior if it\u2019s not something you want the dog to be doing.<\/p>\n It\u2019s important to remember that every dog is an individual and your pup may be digging in their crate for a reason not listed here. That being said, many dogs are likely digging in their crate due to one of the following reasons:<\/p>\n Digging is a natural behavior<\/a> for all dogs, though certain breeds of dog<\/a> are more likely to engage in digging behaviors than others. Hunting dogs like terriers and beagles are in particular prone to digging, as are thich-coated Northern breeds like the Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute.<\/p>\n These breeds have developed reputations for being diggers, and that digging behavior is not just seen out in the flower garden but elsewhere in the dog\u2019s living area including within their crate.<\/p>\n While digging is an instinctual behavior, the need to engage in it while inside a crate is often associated with a secondary reason (likely one of the ones listed below) rather than just the need to dig due to a breed trait.<\/p>\n In many cases, extreme digging in the crate for breeds that are prone to the behavior (which again is a natural<\/em> behavior) is due to the dog not having a more appropriate outlet for their need to dig.<\/p>\n Most dog owners will have witnessed their pup digging in their blankets and moving in circles as they attempt to find the \u201cperfect\u201d spot to lay down in. Dogs like to create a comfortable sleeping space just like people do!<\/p>\n While their human owners may be able to fluff pillows and bedding to create comfort, dogs will usually use their paws and a digging action to move their blankets and bedding around.<\/p>\n7 Reasons Why Dogs Dig In Their Crate<\/h2>\n
Reason 1: It\u2019s A Natural Behavior<\/h3>\n
Reason 2: It’s A Comfort Behavior<\/h3>\n