Why Does My Dog Drag His Blanket Around?
Dogs are known for dragging their blankets around the house for a few different reasons. It is his security blanket and helps him feel safe in a new or uncomfortable situation; it is not where he wants it, so he is going to move it, or because your dog is territorial over his things and wants to keep it from everyone else.
Most of the time, dogs dragging their blankets around isn’t a big deal and shouldn’t be something a pet owner worries about. For more information on why your pup might be dragging his blanket around, check out the rest of our article.
Why Does My Dog Drag His Blanket Around?
Dogs do some of the cutest things, and although oftentimes these silly quirks are simply just that, there can also be a deeper meaning behind their actions.
While dragging a blanket around everywhere they go could mean nothing, this action could also be a sign your dog is struggling with some type of emotions or physical issues you may not be aware of.
What Does it Mean When A Dog Drags His Blanket Around?
There are a number of reasons your dog could be dragging his blanket around, and we are going to discuss some of the top ones that could explain your dog’s odd behavior. If you think the behavior is new or a sign your dog may be in pain, contact your vet as soon as possible.
Anxiety
If your dog is anxious, they may find comfort in a specific blanket. If you place a blanket in your pup’s crate or on the floor with him at night, that may become an object your pet develops a bond with.
When your dog is anxious, that blanket helps ease him, and it is like a blanket or stuffed animal for a small child.
Medical Issues
Your pup doesn’t know how to tell you when he feels sick or hurt, making it really hard for dog owners to truly understand their odd behaviors. If dragging the blanket around seems to be a new thing for your pup, maybe he is feeling sick or hurt, and the blanket is a comfort for him.
Territorial
Another reason your dog may be dragging his blanket around the house is that he doesn’t want anyone else to have it. Some dogs are very territorial or protective over the things they believe to belong to them.
If your dog is becoming aggressive or seems upset whenever someone else touches the blanket, that is a good sign you are a witness to territorial behavior.
He’s Cold
Fido carrying a blanket around with him may be as simple as he’s cold. If one area of your home is colder than others, maybe he is laying his blanket down to help stay warm.
Trying To Get Comfortable
Moving, dragging, scratching, and pushing materials around to make a comfortable bed is a natural behavior and instinct for dogs. This is the way things were done by their ancestors before these creatures became domesticated, so it runs in their blood.
If your dog is dragging his blanket around in order to get more comfortable, you will probably also notice him spinning in circles and rubbing his head on the floor.
Nesting
Female dogs will go through a “nesting” phase when they are pregnant (sometimes even when they aren’t) and start preparing a comfortable, safe place to have their pups when she goes into labor.
If you have a pregnant female at home and she starts to drag her blanket around, you know the puppies will be coming soon.
Should I Allow this Behavior
If your dog isn’t experiencing any health or emotional problems, then there really isn’t any reason to correct the issue. If the behavior is simply something your dog is doing to get comfortable wherever they go, then let them be.
However, if you believe the act is due to anxiety or medical issues, you defiantly want to consult a vet. There are different ways to help calm a dog’s nerves, whether due to separation issues, fear of car rides, or something else.
If your dog is dragging his blanket around for territorial reasons, you want to nip that in the bud quickly. Allowing this behavior to go on can result in your dog hurting someone or himself.
Lastly, if your dog is not just dragging his blanket around but also chewing it up, you should find a way to stop either the chewing or both behaviors. Your dog can easily choke or block his intestines by swallowing the material pieces he chews apart.
How Do I Stop My Dog From Dragging His Blanket Around?
There are a couple of things you can try to deter your dog from dragging around his blanket. Try not to make it seem like a punishment; your dog didn’t do anything wrong. You can even involve your pooch in the process.
Move His Bed
First, you can try moving the location of his bed. Maybe he doesn’t feel comfortable where his bed is made, so he moves his blanket to get a better spot.
Buy Him a Weighted Blanket
Another great option is to purchase a weighted blanket. The heavier the blanket, the less likely your dog is going to want to drag it around the house.
Redirect the Action
When you see your dog dragging his blanket, take it from him, let him watch you place it back on his bed, then reward him for leaving it there.
Replace the Blanket With a Toy
If your dog’s blanket dragging is driving you nuts, consider replacing it with a smaller object like a chew toy are stuffed animal. Place the toy in his bed and encourage him to take it around with him instead of the blanket.
Why is My Rescue Dog Dragging His Blanket Around the House?
The most important piece of advice for adopting a rescue dog is to be patient. Sadly, many rescue dogs come to the shelter under terrible circumstances, such as abuse, neglect, hoarding, abandonment, etc.
Even the ones who had a wonderful life with their original owners still deal with some issues and anxiety after the human they grew to love leaves them and never returns.
If your rescue dog is dragging around a blanket, it can be his way of coping with a new situation. This is a safety blanket for him and may help him open up to your home quicker, feeling safe with his blanket right by his side.
Dog Blanket Options
If your dog is going to be dragging his blanket around, you may as well get a durable and safe product. There are many dog blankets on the market today that are designed just for your pup.
One of our favorites is the Canine Coddler that swaddles your pup whenever they are feeling anxious or nervous.
If you are living in an area that can get really cold, flannel or wool blankets may be a better option for you.
Conclusion
There are many things your dog will do in his life that will have you scratching your head. However, no one knows their dog better than you do, so keep your eye on your pup to identify contributing factors to this behavior to rule out anything serious. If your dog is happy and healthy, enjoy watching how cute he looks dragging his blanket around.
