Dogs have this instinct of burrowing under the covers because they want to feel secure, entertained, and comfortable.
But some dog breeds are more likely to exhibit this burrowing behavior because of their hunting heritage. Or maybe they just want to feel warmer.
Which dog breeds are more likely to burrow under blankets?
Check out this list of dog breeds that love to burrow under the covers to see if your dog is one of them and what is behind their burrowing behavior.
Do All Dogs Burrow?
Yes, all dogs can and do burrow to some extent.
But for some breeds, it is more instinctual and built into their DNA.
Dog breeds that were initially bred for hunting small prey, like Beagles, Schnauzers, and Terriers, love to burrow as a natural instinct.
These dogs once spent much of their time searching for vermin underground in tunnels and dens.
This burrowing behavior will feel natural to them and provide them comfort.
But don’t think it is only for these smaller pups. Malamutes and Huskies also love to burrow and dig. In their case though, the behavior is more about temperature control rather than hunting instincts.
Their ancestors would burrow underground in the snow to keep warm. They also continue this behavior today to cool down when they are feeling hot.
Which may also explain why your Husky is digging up your yard.
The Root of Dogs’ Burrowing Behavior
The main reason behind your dog’s burrowing behavior is their innate hunting habits.
The ancestors of your domesticated dog spent much of their time burrowing into tunnels and caves to hunt their prey.
They go into tunnels to hunt moles, rodents, gray foxes, otters and other small animals.
Some dogs would hide in enclosed spaces to avoid getting wet from the rain, while others feel better settling in these spaces with fellow creatures.
Snowdogs liked to cover themselves under the snow to keep themselves warm. Even though the snow is cold, burrowing themselves under it helps maintain their body temperature.
Your modern furry friend continues to burrow but not under the snow or ground anymore. They burrow under the covers because they search for modern-day equivalents of warmth.
Dogs also burrow under the blankets now because they want to feel a sense of security.
If your dog’s breed does not have a hunting history but still loves to settle under the blankets, it could be because they long for the warmth of curling up with their littermates.
Your pooch finds comfort in sleeping beside their human and animal pack members, nestling under the sheets to feel and smell you.
Why the Blankets?
Dogs prefer burrowing under the blankets because they’re accessible and comfortable.
Blankets are the softest, fluffiest, and warmest things in your house your dog can use to fulfill their need for comfort and security.
They might also use your sofa cover or cushions to hide under when inside the house. Or they could find a tarp to dive under when out in the yard.
The point is that dogs are simple creatures. They will look for the most accessible options to find comfort.
If they can’t go outside to bury themselves in snow, they use your throw blanket.
If dogs can’t dig in your garden, they’ll dig in your bed.
If your dog can’t find enclosed spaces in your home, they improvise with your soft sheets.
Blankets satisfy their physical needs providing warmth to go along with that safe haven. It’s the perfect formula for a good night’s sleep.
Dog Breeds That Burrow Under Blankets
Some dogs burrow because of their genetics. Others simply learned the habit growing up. Look at some dog breeds that are notorious blanket burrowers!
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale terrier is a ground-dwelling hunter and digger from the Aire Valley in Northern England.
You’ll find this adorable creature playing under your sheets to satisfy their ancestry of rat-hunting behavior.
This dog breed also enjoyed hunting for ducks. Take them outside, and they will be happy to dig up your lawn as well.
Make sure to clean your blankets after letting your Terrier play on them. Their fur can cause a mess on your bed.
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is known for its cheerful attitude. They always want to play and get their body moving outdoors.
Siberian Huskies love to dig and cover themselves in the snow to stay warm. You might notice them doing the same with soil, even in tropical climates.
If your Husky stays indoors more often, they will burrow under the blankets to recreate the same sensation. They will dig around in your bed and hide under the covers to seek comfort.
Dachshunds
The Dachshund is known for its tiny legs and long torso. This hound dog used to dig up tunnels and search for festering rodents underground.
Don’t worry. Your Dachshund isn’t looking for rats when they burrow under your sheets. They’re only mimicking this behavior because it’s hardwired in their DNA.
Dachshunds love using their sense of smell and burrowing instincts when they play this little game of hiding under the sheets. It’s their way of entertaining themselves and finding comfort undercover.
Alaskan Malamute
Like the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute likes to seek shelter under your sheets because of the comfort it gives them.
This breed is one of the oldest dogs that might have descended from the Paleolithic wolfdog. The wolfdog was an assistant to hunters 4000 years ago, digging dens in the frigid Alaskan snow.
Malamutes hide in these dens to stay cool when summer hits. So, expect your furry friend to do the same under your blankets if they have no shelter from the weather.
Border Collie
The Border Collie is another pup that likes to burrow under the blanket. This energetic dog was originally a herding dog with a drive to stay productive and active.
If your Border Collie spends most of the time indoors, they will enjoy playing under your blankets, and they will nap there once they’re tired.
Burrowing under the covers will satisfy their herding nature and provide them with a comfortable and safe spot to rest.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd was not bred for hunting on land like their ancestors. They originate from the Basque Pyrenean Shepherd, then arrived in Australia to mix with the Collie.
Then, they emigrated to the United States, with many people thinking they were originally an Australian breed.
Aussie Shepherds are active working dogs. If you don’t give them enough exercise and mental stimulation, they will exhibit behaviors like hiding under your blankets, chewing on pillows, and digging.
Beagles
Beagles are hound dogs that love to follow scents by digging and placing their whole bodies close to the ground.
They used to do this to track underground rodents, rabbits, and similar animals while hunting.
So, it’s natural for the modern-day Beagle to role-play as their ancestor hunters and bury under the covers. They will curl up under the sheets, smell your mattress, and run around your room.
Be careful about your Beagle “marking their spot” on your blanket. Make sure to potty-train them to avoid this bad behavior at a young age.
Griffons
Griffons are hunting breeds that also make a great companion for sporting adventures. These active dogs excel in different sports, hunting, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Don’t let your dog channel all that activeness into burrowing under your covers or destroying your house.
Griffons don’t naturally dwell in tight spaces. So, if you notice your dog doing this, it might be a sign of bad behavior.
Give your dog enough exercise and playtime outside so they won’t be destructive indoors.
Schnauzers
Like Dachshunds and Beagles, Schnauzers have a deep-seated tendency to explore tight spaces as they mimic hunting for small prey.
Don’t be surprised when you see your Schnauzer engaging in the same activity indoors. They will burrow under your covers, try to get inside small drawers, and hide beneath tables to play-hunt.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound, also known as the Hush Puppy, emerged in Belgium and France due to friars in the Belgium Abbey of Saint-Hubert.
These animals are bred for scent tracking. They will smell your pillows, blanket, sheets, and mattress until they find themselves burrowing beneath the layers and unable to get out.
As a hunting dog, your Basset Hound might also try to dig on your bed and chew your pillows. These behaviors can be a sign of boredom if you’re not giving them enough mental stimulation.
Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is another ratter that sticks its whole body on the ground to look for rats.
Their ability to stay under the covers for a long time is because their ancestors were miners’ assistants in Northumberland too.
As house pets, Bedlington terriers now seek comfort in tight spaces. They also love being around people when sleeping because of their gentle and affectionate personality.
But beware of this furry friend suddenly digging into your bed out of nowhere. You might think they’re sleeping under the covers, but they’re actually planning a play-hunt activity.
Do Dogs Like Being Under Blankets?
It depends.
Some dog breeds like being under blankets because of their hunting instincts. Others enjoy the covers because they find warmth and comfort in them.
Dogs enjoy burrowing themselves because it’s warm, comfortable, and reminiscent of their ancestors’ behavior.
They may also do it to keep themselves warm in the cold weather. If your dog does not have access to a heater or any warm part of the house, they will resort to hiding under the sheets.
Find out more about your dog being under the blankets here.
Why Does My Dog Sleep on My Pillow?
Your dog likes sleeping on the pillow because it complements the blanket well.
They feel more comfortable and warmer with these soft ensembles around them.
But not all dogs like to sleep with a pillow. In fact, it’s safer for dogs to sleep without one to keep their spine neutral.
Here are other reasons your dog is sleeping on your pillow.
Do Puppies Need a Blanket at Night?
Yes, puppies will need a blanket at night while they are young.
They can’t always regulate their body temperature on their own.
Blankets can also provide anxiety relief for dogs who feel scared and anxious at night.
Check out more on knowing if your dog needs a blanket or not.
Dogs Mimic Their Ancestors
Beagles, Australian Shepherds, Collies, and Huskies are more likely to burrow under the covers because of their hunting instincts or their desire to feel warm.
They lay on your bed and lounge under the covers because it’s reminiscent of the tunnels where their ancestors hunted or the snow they buried themselves in.
Make sure they have a breathable blanket to burrow under and that they can get out once they feel uncomfortable or hot, to ensure they feel safe and comfortable.
If you want a complete story on the root of your dog’s behavior, check out all the reasons your dog burrows under the blanket.
