You may notice your dog scratching or digging in the sofa or mattress, as you observe them you may be thinking, “What’s going on? why do dogs dig on beds and couches? Is this their weird thing? Or is my couch in trouble?”

However, your dogs laying on the couch looks adorable to you. But, once dog scratching behavior starts on the couch, you'd want to know what is happening. So, stop wondering "why does my dog dig on the couch" and learn what is happening and what you can do about it.

Why Do Dogs Dig on Beds and Couches?

Dogs scratch beds and couches due to multiple reasons, such as instinct, comfort, anxiety, and attention-seeking. Dogs can be prompted by boredom and anxiety as well. Dogs under stress, with separation anxiety, or without enough stimulation might scratch as a way to cope.

If your dog scratches the couch upon being left alone or prior to sleeping, they may be attempting to release nervous tension. Attention-seeking is also a frequent cause. If digging gets your reaction—whether positive or negative your dog may continue doing it just to engage with you.

It is important to understand why they dig as it can help you manage their habit. While you are trying to keep your furniture and couch safe, do keep an eye on your dog as this behavior could be because of many reasons. 

Listed below are the reasons why you often see your dog start digging:

1. Anxiety and Stress Relief

Dogs dig at furniture as a coping mechanism for anxiety. If your dog is scratching the couch in excess when alone or restless, stress may be the reason.

2. Nesting and Comfort Seeking

Your pup’s ancestors used to dig to create warm, safe places to sleep. That instinct is still alive, and your couch or bed might just be the perfect spot for a "doggy on sofa" moment.

3. Attention-Seeking Behavior

If your dog has learned that scratching the couch gets your attention (even if it’s a scolding), they might keep doing it!

4. Instinctual Temperature Regulation

Dogs naturally dig to regulate body temperature. They might scratch at the couch to find a cooler or warmer spot, just like wild dogs dig into the ground.

5. Maternal Nesting Instincts

A female dog nesting instinct makes her dig the couch or other furniture. If you have one, particularly if she’s pregnant, then its because she is going through hormonal fluctuations. To help her feel better there are certain methods one can imply. 

How Do You Keep Your Dog Off the Couch? 

If you’re one of those pet parent who don’t mind their big dog on the sofa, while others prefer a no-dog-on-furniture rule. If you want to keep your couch dog-free, try these effective solutions:

1. Make Their Bed More Appealing

If your dog continuously disregards their dog bed and goes for the couch instead, the problem could be that the bed is not comfortable. Dogs are drawn to warmth, security, and softness, just like couches provide.

Solution
Invest in a bed that keeps your dog comfortable and engaged, especially if they tend to chew or get restless. Something like a tough, chew-resistant dog bed can be a great option — it offers support while standing up to rough use. Beds with raised edges or bolsters can also give them that cozy, secure feeling they look for on the couch.

If and where possible, put their bed in a warm, quieter place where they would naturally rest. Additionally, you could add a blanket, old T-shirts, or some belongings to help make it more inviting.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement Training

Training them the commands "leave it" and "off" will demonstrate to your dog that the couch is not a resting place. Use consistent commands and be patient while training your dog to remain off the couch.

Solution:
Each time your pet selects their bed instead of the couch, give them a compliment, treat, or their favorite toy. When they jump up onto the couch, kindly take them down and transfer them to their bed. Be firm but calm, and repeat a command such as “off,” and reward them immediately when they respond.

Over time they will not only associate staying off the couch with rewards but rewards itself! Remember, punishment has far less use than positive reinforcement, so focus on positive reinforcement rather than negative.

3. Use Dog-Friendly Couch Covers & Barriers

Some pet owners don’t mind their dogs on the sofa but want to protect their furniture from fur, scratches, and dirt. In such cases, dog-friendly couch covers are a great investment. However, if you want to keep them off completely, barriers can help.

Solution:
Use washable, long-lasting couch covers specifically designed for pet owners. They can be easily cleaned and resist scratching, shedding, and drooling. 

To keep your dog from jumping on the couch, apply double-sided tape or aluminum foil to the cushions—most dogs hate the feel and will leave it alone. When you are away, put up baby gates or furniture blockers to limit entry into the living room. Eventually, your dog will learn that the couch is not his resting place.

4. Give More Physical and Mental Stimulation

Dogs also tend to jump on the couch because they are bored. If your dog isn't being physically exercised and mentally stimulated enough, they will get destructive and scratch or dig on the couch.

Solution:
An extra play session, longer walks, or playing with their toy or ball can be a great step. When you’re not home, keep them busy with puzzle toys, snuffle mats, or treats. A dog needs to be spending their time with something that is creative and a little challenging for them. Providing them with durable and engaging dog toys can also help redirect their energy in a positive way.

A doggy daycare can also give attention to your dog, and it’s an assurance that your dog is safe, too. A happy and busy pup will not get time to jump on the couch to deal with their boredom. 

5. Try Natural Deterrents

If you’re wondering how to keep dogs off couches naturally, using pet-safe deterrents is a great solution. Certain scents and textures can discourage dogs from jumping onto furniture without harming them.

Solution:
In general, dogs do not like vinegar, citrus, and strong herbal odors. You can blend a homemade spray using water and lemon juice or apple cider vinegar and lightly spritz it on your couch (be sure the couch cover will not be ruined by the spray).

You can also buy pet deterrent sprays at your local pet store if you do not wish to create your own. Lastly, take away blankets, pillows, and anything else you believe may invite your dog onto the couch.

Final Thoughts

There are many possible explanations for a dog digging in your couch and bed: instinctive nesting, self-soothing, seeking comfort, and/or seeking your attention. By understanding your dog's digging behavior, you will have a better basis to decide on an appropriate way to redirect your dog. 

The best methods are utilizing training, providing an enticing alternative, and supporting emotional regulation. All of this can be accomplished through the use of positive reinforcement and consistency, and paired with dog to be focused on preferred behaviors, while saving your couch and couches.