We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful 9 month old Belgian Malinois named Rookie.
My mom and dad tell me I am as smart as a whip and sometimes a little too clever……
Apparently I learned how to lock my mom out of the house………sorry mom, dad had to take an emergency leave from work to let mom back into the house!!!! I am still a good boy, right dad? HEE HEE
Welcome to Doggie Dialogue:
Most breeds have their own quirky behaviours, however many breeds love that “scratching ritual” before picking a suitable place to nap. Many dogs will circle around a little before lying down as well.
Did you know dogs scratch and dig their pillows, beds, or blanket, to help regulate their body temperature before lying down. In hot climates, dogs have been known to dig holes into the ground to protect themselves from the heat.
Dogs will also dig their bed to help spread their scent around. This is their way of letting other animals know that this is their territory.
Many dogs will scratch their beds to create a comfortable spot. The reason for “circling” is to ensure the area is safe to lie down. This behaviour dates back to ancient dog behaviours, that lived in the wild. Wild dogs would dig down into the grass or ground to camouflage themselves against predators.
Pregnant female dogs will dig at their bed to prepare for a comfortable “nest” for their puppies to spend the first couple of days on.
If scratching or digging is creating a problem in your home, like ruining your leather couch or scratching up your new wooden floors, there are a few tips to try to help solve this behaviour:
1. Give your dog their own space with a big bed to dig and “fluff”
2. Remember to keep their nails trimmed
3. Distract your dog with a new chew or favorite toy.
