Why Do Dogs Bury Things? Understanding Canine Behaviour

Dogs have a fascinating behavior of burying their bones and toys, but have you ever wondered why they do it? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind dogs burying and understand the instincts that drive this behavior. Whether it’s a bone or a cherished toy, there’s more to their burying habits than meets the eye.

Key Takeaways:

• Dogs bury things due to their ancestral instincts of protecting and safeguarding what they consider valuable.
• Burying behavior can be traced back to the days when wild dogs had to hunt for food and store their surplus for leaner times.
• This behavior is similar to hoarding and is a normal expression of a dog’s natural instincts.
• Breed can influence burying behavior, but all dogs have the capacity for digging and burying.
• Excessive burying behavior can be a sign of stress or anxiety and professional guidance may be needed.

Ancestral Instincts: Food Protection and Preservation

One of the main reasons why dogs bury things, such as bones and toys, is deeply rooted in their ancestral instincts. Dogs have inherited this behavior from their wild ancestors who had to protect and preserve their food. In the wild, food was not always readily available, so wild dogs would hunt, eat a portion of their kill, and bury the rest for later consumption. Burying the food helped them make the most of their hunting efforts and ensured that the food stayed fresh for longer. It also kept the food safe from other hungry animals, reducing the risk of spoilage.

This instinctual behavior of burying food has been passed down through generations, even though domesticated dogs no longer need to hunt for their food. Whether it’s a bone or a toy, the act of burying is deeply ingrained in their nature as a way of safeguarding their resources. While it may seem unnecessary in our modern society, this behavior is a testament to their instinctual drive to protect and preserve what they consider valuable.

“The behavior of dogs burying their bones and toys is deeply rooted in their ancestral instincts.”

Understanding this ancestral instinct can help us better comprehend and address our canine companions’ burying behavior. It’s important to respect this behavior and provide them with appropriate alternatives to satisfy their natural instincts. This may include providing them with toys designed for digging and burying or engaging in interactive play that stimulates their natural behaviors. By doing so, we can help fulfill their instincts while also minimizing the potential damage or inconvenience that may arise from their burying behavior.

Reasons for Burying Behavior	Examples
Food Protection	Burying bones to keep them safe from other animals or potential competition.
Resource Guarding	Burying treasures to ensure they remain solely theirs.
Future Enjoyment	Saving items for later indulgence, similar to their ancestors storing food for leaner times.

Burying Other Valuables

Dogs not only bury their food but also other items they consider valuable. This behavior is rooted in their instinct to hide and protect possessions. Dog toys, household objects, and even the TV remote can become buried treasures for dogs. They may choose to bury these items in various places, such as underneath furniture or in the yard, as a way of ensuring their treasures are secure and can be enjoyed later.

This burying behavior is similar to hoarding and is a normal expression of a dog’s natural instincts. While it may seem strange to us, it is important to understand that burying is deeply ingrained in their behavior. Dogs have a natural desire to keep their possessions safe and protected, just as their wild ancestors did with their food.

To dogs, burying items is a way of safeguarding what they hold dear. It gives them a sense of security and control over their resources. It is important for dog owners to recognize and respect this instinctive behavior, providing their pets with alternative outlets and appropriate toys to fulfill their burying instincts.

Valuables Dogs May Bury	Reasons for Burying
Dog toys	Desire to protect and enjoy later
Household objects	Instinct to safeguard possessions
TV remote	Perceived value and desire for safekeeping

Key Points:

• Dogs may bury items they consider valuable as a way of protecting and enjoying them later.
• This behavior is rooted in their instinct to safeguard possessions and is similar to hoarding.
• Providing dogs with alternative outlets and appropriate toys can help fulfill their burying instincts while preventing damage to valuable items.

Breed Influences and Excavation Skills

When it comes to digging and burying, some dog breeds have a natural affinity for these behaviors. Terriers, Dachshunds, Beagles, Basset Hounds, and Miniature Schnauzers are just a few examples of breeds known for their excavation skills. These breeds have a heightened desire to save their resources, which can manifest in burying behavior. In particular, terriers were originally bred to dig and hunt small game, explaining their natural inclination for digging and burying.

While all dogs have the potential to engage in burying behavior, certain breeds may be more predisposed to it due to their genetics and instincts. It’s important to keep in mind that breed influences are just one factor in a dog’s behavior, and each individual dog may exhibit unique variations. Understanding breed-specific traits can help pet owners anticipate and manage burying behaviors in their dogs.

To better visualize the breed influences on digging and burying behaviors, let’s take a look at the following table:

Breed	Excavation Skills	Burying Behavior
Terrier	High	High
Dachshund	High	High
Beagle	Moderate	Moderate
Basset Hound	Moderate	Moderate
Miniature Schnauzer	High	High

“Certain breeds have a heightened desire to save their resources and may be more prone to burying bones.”

While the table above showcases the excavation skills and burying behavior of specific breeds, it’s important to note that individual dogs within these breeds may exhibit variations. Additionally, breed influences are not the sole determining factor in a dog’s behavior, as environmental factors and individual personalities also play a significant role.

Reasons for Burying Behavior

Dogs engage in burying behavior for various reasons, each rooted in their natural instincts. One primary motive is food protection. Dogs have inherited the instinct to bury bones or food to safeguard them from other animals or potential competition. This behavior is an inherent way for dogs to ensure that their valuable resources remain secure.

Another reason for burying behavior is resource guarding. Dogs may bury their possessions as a way of asserting ownership and preventing others from accessing or taking them. This behavior is closely tied to a dog’s instinct to protect and claim their valuable possessions.

Additionally, dogs may engage in burying behavior as a means of future enjoyment. Just as their ancestors stored food for leaner times, dogs may bury items such as toys or bones to save them for later indulgence. This behavior allows dogs to satisfy their natural instincts and enjoy their treasures at a later time.

In summary, the reasons for dogs burying things can be categorized into food protection, resource guarding, and future enjoyment. Understanding these motivations can help pet owners better appreciate their dog’s instinctive behaviors and provide appropriate outlets for their burying instincts.

Stress, Anxiety, and Burying Behavior

Dogs may engage in burying behavior as a way to cope with stress and anxiety. This behavior can serve as a form of self-soothing, providing dogs with comfort and relief. When dogs feel unsafe or have experienced competition for resources in the past, they may exhibit more pronounced burying behavior due to heightened anxiety. For example, dogs from multi-dog households or those who have come from environments with limited resources are more likely to engage in burying as a way to protect their valued possessions.

It is important for pet owners to provide a safe and secure environment for their dogs, especially those who exhibit burying behavior due to stress and anxiety. Creating a calm and predictable routine can help alleviate anxiety and reduce the need for self-soothing behaviors like burying. Additionally, incorporating positive reinforcement training techniques and interactive toys can help redirect their energy and provide mental stimulation, which can contribute to overall emotional well-being.

While burying behavior is generally normal for dogs, excessive or obsessive burying can be a sign of underlying anxiety or compulsive tendencies. If the burying behavior becomes problematic or interferes with the dog’s daily life, it is recommended to seek professional advice from a qualified dog trainer or behaviorist. They can help assess the specific situation, identify the underlying causes, and provide tailored strategies to manage and address the behavior effectively.

Potential Problems and Solutions

While burying behavior is generally harmless, it can sometimes cause problems for dog owners. One common issue is destructive digging, where dogs dig up lawns and gardens in their quest to bury items. This behavior can be frustrating and result in damaged property. Another potential problem is resource guarding, where dogs become possessive and aggressive over their buried treasures. This can lead to conflicts with other pets or even family members.

To address these problems, there are several solutions that dog owners can consider. One approach is to provide alternative outlets for your dog’s energy. Regularly scheduled walks and dedicated playtime can help fulfill their physical and mental stimulation needs, reducing the urge to engage in destructive digging. Positive training techniques, such as teaching your dog to “leave it” or “drop it” can also be effective in redirecting their attention away from burying behavior.

“By providing alternative outlets for their energy and redirecting their attention, dog owners can minimize the potential problems associated with burying behavior.”
– Professional Dog Trainer

In addition, limiting access to toys and rotating them regularly can help alleviate the urge to bury items. This can prevent resource guarding behaviors and promote a healthier relationship between your dog and their possessions. Seeking professional guidance from a dog trainer or behaviorist can also be beneficial, especially if the burying behavior becomes excessive or uncontrollable. They can provide tailored solutions and guidance based on your specific situation.

Table: Solutions for Burying Behavior

Potential Problems	Solutions
Destructive Digging	– Provide alternative outlets for energy (i.e., walks, playtime) – Positive training techniques – Create designated digging areas
Resource Guarding	– Limit access to toys – Rotate toys regularly – Seek professional guidance

By implementing these solutions and understanding the underlying causes of burying behavior, dog owners can minimize the potential problems associated with burying behavior. It’s important to be patient and consistent in addressing the behavior, as it may take time for dogs to adjust to new routines and redirection techniques.

Handling Burying Behavior

When it comes to handling a dog’s burying behavior, it’s crucial to understand and respect their instinctive nature. Scolding or punishing your dog for burying can cause stress and confusion, so it’s essential to approach the behavior with patience and alternative solutions. Providing suitable alternatives for their burying instincts can be an effective way to redirect their behavior without causing damage or frustration.

One alternative to consider is providing toys or puzzles that cater to their natural instincts. Interactive toys, such as treat-dispensing toys or puzzle games, can engage their minds and allow them to channel their burying behavior in a more constructive way. By offering these types of toys, you provide your dog with an appropriate outlet for their instincts while also keeping them mentally stimulated.

Engaging in structured playtime and positive training techniques can also help redirect your dog’s energy and focus. By setting aside dedicated playtime and engaging in training sessions, you provide a constructive outlet for their instinctive behaviors. This not only helps manage their burying behavior but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.

Professional Training and Guidance

Seeking professional guidance can be beneficial if your dog’s burying behavior becomes excessive or problematic. A qualified dog trainer or behaviorist can assess the specific situation, identify any underlying causes, and develop a tailored plan to modify the behavior effectively. They can provide further guidance and support to ensure the well-being of both your dog and yourself.

Remember, each dog is unique, and their burying behavior may vary. What works for one dog may not work for another, which is why professional guidance can be invaluable. By working with a professional, you can gain insights into your dog’s specific needs and develop a personalized approach to manage their burying behavior.

To sum up, handling a dog’s burying behavior requires understanding, respect for their instincts, and providing suitable alternatives. By respecting their instinctive nature, providing appropriate alternatives, and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can create a harmonious environment and ensure your dog leads a happy and balanced life.

The Influence of Breed on Burying Behavior

When it comes to burying behavior in dogs, breed can play a significant role. While all dogs have the potential to exhibit burying behavior, certain breeds are more inclined towards this instinct. Terriers, Dachshunds, Beagles, and other breeds known for their digging and hunting abilities are more likely to engage in burying behavior. This can be attributed to their genetic predisposition and the instincts that have been selectively bred into them.

Terriers, for example, were originally bred to dig and hunt small game, making them naturally inclined to engage in digging and burying behaviors. Similarly, Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, were bred to burrow into tunnels to hunt prey. These breed-specific traits contribute to their strong instinct to bury objects.

To better understand the influence of breed on burying behavior, let’s take a look at a comparison of burying tendencies in different breeds:

Breed	Burying Behavior
Terrier	High
Dachshund	High
Beagle	Moderate
Golden Retriever	Low

As shown in the table, Terriers and Dachshunds have a high tendency to engage in burying behavior, while breeds like Beagles and Golden Retrievers exhibit lower levels of burying behavior. These differences can be attributed to breed-specific traits and the instincts ingrained in them over generations.

It’s important for pet owners to be aware of their dog’s breed tendencies and provide appropriate outlets for their burying instincts. By understanding breed-specific traits, owners can better manage and redirect their dog’s burying behavior, ensuring a happy and fulfilled canine companion.

Tips for Minimizing Burying Behavior

If your dog has a tendency to bury things, there are several strategies you can implement to minimize this behavior. By providing alternative outlets for your dog’s energy and instincts, you can redirect their burying behavior in a more manageable manner.

Firstly, scheduled walks and playtime are essential for fulfilling your dog’s need for physical and mental stimulation. Regular exercise helps to release pent-up energy and reduces the urge to bury items. Engage in interactive play sessions with toys that cater to your dog’s natural instincts, such as puzzle toys or interactive treat-dispensing toys.

Positive training techniques are also effective in redirecting your dog’s burying behavior. Use reward-based training methods to teach your dog alternative behaviors and reinforce positive associations. For example, if your dog tends to bury toys, teach them the “drop it” or “leave it” command, rewarding them with a treat when they release the item instead of burying it.

Toy rotation is another useful strategy to minimize burying behavior. Instead of leaving all the toys accessible to your dog at once, rotate them periodically. This keeps the toys novel and exciting for your dog, reducing the need to bury them. Alternate between a selection of toys, ensuring each toy is engaging and stimulating for your dog.

Table: Toy Rotation Schedule

Week	Toy 1	Toy 2	Toy 3
Week 1	Tug Rope	Squeaky Ball	Puzzle Toy
Week 2	Squeaky Ball	Puzzle Toy	Treat Dispenser
Week 3	Puzzle Toy	Treat Dispenser	Tug Rope

By implementing these tips, you can help minimize your dog’s burying behavior and provide them with appropriate outlets for their instincts. Remember to be patient and consistent in your approach, and seek professional guidance if the behavior persists or becomes problematic.

Seeking Professional Guidance

When dealing with excessive burying behavior in dogs, it can be beneficial to seek professional guidance. A dog trainer or behaviorist can provide valuable insights and strategies to address the behavior effectively. These professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess the specific situation and develop a tailored plan to modify the behavior.

Seeking professional guidance is especially important when burying behavior becomes problematic or leads to destructive consequences. A qualified trainer or behaviorist can help determine the underlying causes of the behavior and provide appropriate solutions. They can also offer guidance on managing stress and anxiety in dogs, which may contribute to excessive burying.

Working with a professional can lead to positive outcomes and create a harmonious environment for both the dog and the owner. They can offer support and resources to help pet owners understand and address burying behavior in a safe and effective manner.

Benefits of Seeking Professional Guidance:

• Expert assessment of the specific burying behavior
• Development of tailored strategies and solutions
• Understanding of the underlying causes of the behavior
• Management of stress and anxiety in dogs
• Creation of a harmonious environment for the dog and the owner

Excessive Burying Behavior	Seeking Professional Guidance
Causes frustration and confusion for pet owners	Offers expert insights and guidance
Can lead to damage of lawns and gardens	Provides tailored strategies to address the behavior
May escalate to resource guarding and aggression	Assesses the specific situation and offers appropriate solutions

“Working with a dog trainer or behaviorist can be invaluable in ensuring the well-being of both the dog and the owner. They can provide professional guidance and support to address burying behavior, helping to create a harmonious and balanced life for your canine companion. Don’t hesitate to seek their expertise when burying behavior becomes excessive or problematic.”

Wrapping Up

Understanding burying behavior in dogs provides valuable insight into their innate instincts and helps pet owners effectively manage this behavior. It is crucial to respect and redirect these instincts through appropriate alternatives and positive training methods. By providing outlets for their energy, addressing potential stress or anxiety, and seeking professional guidance when necessary, we can create a harmonious environment for our canine companions, ensuring they lead happy and balanced lives.

Dogs’ burying behavior is deeply rooted in their ancestral instincts, particularly those related to food protection and preservation. Although domesticated dogs no longer need to hunt for food, their instinct to bury remains, leading them to bury not only bones but also toys and other cherished possessions. Recognizing this natural behavior and responding accordingly is key to fostering a healthy relationship with our furry friends.

Managing burying behavior involves providing appropriate alternatives for dogs to satisfy their instinctive needs. Scheduled walks, structured playtime, and positive training techniques play a vital role in fulfilling their need for mental and physical stimulation. Offering interactive toys and regularly rotating them can also help reduce the urge to bury items. Additionally, addressing stress and anxiety through a safe and secure environment, along with professional guidance, allows us to support our dogs in overcoming any excessive or problematic burying behavior.

Ultimately, understanding and managing burying behavior in dogs is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. By respecting their instincts, redirecting their behavior, and seeking professional assistance when needed, we can create a loving and balanced environment for our canine companions, fostering a strong and lasting bond between human and dog.