Why Do Dachshunds Like To Sleep Under Blankets?

Introduction

Why do dachshunds like to sleep under blankets? It is a dog’s natural instinct to burrow and sleep in a cozy warm place. However, for Dachshunds, the reason behind this behavior is that they were bred for hunting.

Dachshunds were kept to trail tunneling animals like rabbits, foxes, and badgers (they were exclusively bred to hunt badgers – Badger Dog).

Since they have been peerless in digging for a long time, comprehensively, some of the traits remained after little wiener dogs got a solid spot in households.

So don’t be surprised when you see a Dachshund sleeping on a bed sheet or prepping up a pillow. They were meant to do so.

Why Do Dachshunds Like To Sleep Under Blankets?

Dachshunds love burrowing into blankets because it’s in their genes.

Their Natural Instinct To Dig

Dachshunds will take your time when you train them, which is why Dachshunds are the worst breed. Therefore, we all know that dogs like to sleep in a nice nest for themselves at night, which makes them feel safe and secure. So do Dachshunds. This nest, like this in dark spaces, makes them sleep better.

So they love the sweaters you leave on the sofa or the blankets you throw on the ground because that is where they can doze away comfortably.

Dachshunds’ ways of preparing for a nap spot can be very human-like. They circle, dig up the blankets, snug in, and then hit the sack. This way of behaving can be something they pick up from humans after a long time of living together.

Overflowing Energy

Excessive energy is another contributing reason why Dachshunds like to burrow under blankets. If your Dachshund’s burrowing tends to be aggressive, it might be because they are overactive and have no productive outlet, especially for Dachshund puppies.

In lockdowns, when their chance of socializing with other dogs is fairly rare, digging up blankets or sprinting around is just a way to free themselves from frustrations.

Further reading:

Dachshunds Love To Sleep With You

Dachshunds or dogs, in general, have a strong sense of smell. So burying themselves in blankets might mean they are obsessed with your presence. That’s so sweet!

That also explains why dachshunds love to burrow under our duvets and covers next to us every night. They want to be a part of our lives.

Even though sometimes we feel annoyed about our Dachshunds being so clingy, we are still lucky to receive such heart-touching love and attention at the end of the day.

Is It Safe For Dachshunds To Sleep Under The Covers?

Since denning is an instinct of Dachshunds, it is normal and safe for them to sleep under the covers. Don’t worry that they might be suffocated. They are fine on their own.

Dachshunds will pop their heads out if they’re short of air and will flick the cover off if it gets too hot. Interestingly, Dachshunds have large lungs for their size, so you don’t have to be too cautious. You can always get them a light weighted blanket or tunnel dog beds to prevent them from drowning under heavy sheets.

Some people wait for their Dachshund to fall asleep, then uncover the dog’s nose to ensure they can breathe properly.

Dachshunds are extremely dedicated and earnest about something they’re passionate about. So watching this slim and serpentine dog make their “bed” will be hilarious as they usually take too much time.

Nevertheless, owners and their families should watch out for accidents resulting from this habit. Always check under your cushions and blankets before throwing yourself on the sofa and bed, as you might crush these lop-eared creatures.

Is Sleeping Under The Covers A Bad Sign For Your Dachshund?

Sleeping under sheets is a universal thing for all dogs. But at times, it can carry some issues. Your Dachshund can be suffering from boredom or, worse, separation anxiety.

If they shake and act out of their mind when you’re gone, you should take them to the vet to have an overall check-up to ensure nothing serious.

What To Do When Your Dachshunds Like To Burrow Under Blankets?

Some owners are fine with their Dachshunds digging up the bedding, and some want them to stop. So depending on how your dog behaves, we will have different ways to tackle this problem.

If they’re very calm and tamed when doing it, it is completely normal to let them do their things. But if they get aggressive, you can always stop it with some effort.

Canine behaviorists suggest the process of correction, redirection, and reinforcement.

Because digging is rather a harmless behavior, owners are encouraged to use verbal correction only. Whenever they start messing, you come to them and say, “No! You don’t do that” – that’s the correction.

Then you redirect them to other positive things like sitting or rolling. And when they listen and do what you say, you reinforce the experience with treats or head rubbing.

Fixing a habit requires a lot of time, and you must be devoted to the process. The implementation needs effort and discipline for your dog to be fully trained. Also, sleeping under blankets for so long will lead to signs of urination or defecation, which is why Dachshunds are hard to potty train.

Another way to solve the problem is to provide them with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation (like toys). Besides, you want to give them enough attention, making them feel comfortable and loved. This method will ensure they don’t have inappropriate behavior and guarantee that your Dachshunds sleep all year round.

Final Thoughts

So, why do dachshunds like to sleep under blankets?

Now you know it is an instinct of Dachshunds that they love to sleep under the covers. You don’t want to disturb them from having a good time. Sometimes, it’s a loving sign of your pet to show you how much he adores you.