Why Do Dogs Like to Bury Things?

Why Do Dogs Like to Bury Things?

Dogs are fascinating creatures with behaviors that often leave us puzzled. One intriguing habit that many dogs exhibit is burying things. If you’ve ever caught your canine companion digging holes in the backyard or hiding toys under the couch cushions, you might wonder why they do this. To understand this behavior, we need to delve into the ancestral history of dogs. Thousands of years ago, their wild ancestors, such as wolves, had to fend for themselves in the wild. Survival often depended on storing food for later consumption and protecting valuable resources.

The act of burying food and prized possessions served two primary purposes for wild canines:

1. Food Preservation: Wild dogs would bury excess food to keep it safe from scavengers and to prevent it from spoiling. By digging a hole and covering their food, they could return to it later when hunting was scarce or when they needed an emergency food stash.
2. Protecting Valuables: Besides food, wild dogs may have had other valuable items like bones or prized possessions like favorite toys. Burying these items ensured they were safe from theft by other animals or even other members of the pack.

While domestic dogs have evolved significantly since their wild ancestors, some of their instincts still linger. The behavior of burying things is deeply ingrained in their genetic makeup. However, the reasons for burying things may have shifted slightly in the modern context.

Why Do Dogs Bury Things Today?

1. Instinctive Behavior: As mentioned earlier, dogs still carry some of their ancestors’ instincts. Burying things can be an instinctual act, even if there’s no practical reason for it in their current environment.
2. Storing Surplus: Dogs might bury treats or toys because they have more than they can enjoy at the moment. They might be “saving” these items for later, just like their wild ancestors would save excess food.
3. Comfort and Security: Dogs often bury items they consider valuable or comforting, much like a child holding onto a favorite blanket or toy. This behavior could be a way for them to feel secure and comforted.
4. Attention Seeking: Some dogs may bury things as a way to get attention from their owners. They might do it to elicit a response, especially if they notice their humans react strongly to the behavior.
5. Boredom or Anxiety: Burying things can also be a result of boredom or anxiety. Dogs that don’t receive enough mental or physical stimulation may engage in digging and burying to occupy themselves.

Managing Burying Behavior

If your dog’s burying behavior becomes problematic or destructive, you can take some steps to manage it:

1. Provide Adequate Stimulation: Make sure your dog gets enough physical and mental exercise to reduce boredom and anxiety-related behaviors.
2. Offer Appropriate Chew Toys: Provide your dog with toys and chews that are safe and appropriate for them to play with and chew on.
3. Create a Digging Area: If your dog loves to dig and bury things, consider setting up a designated digging area in your backyard where they are allowed to indulge in this behavior.
4. Supervise and Redirect: If you catch your dog burying something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect their attention to a more appropriate activity.
5. Seek Professional Help: If your dog’s burying behavior is excessive, destructive, or causing distress, consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for guidance.

Conclusion

Dogs bury things as an instinctual behavior passed down from their wild ancestors. While the reasons for burying items may have changed over time, it’s essential to understand this behavior and address any issues that may arise. With proper management and understanding, you can help your furry friend feel content and secure in their environment.