Do Dogs Like Blankets? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ
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Blankets are cozy and comfy for us, but do dogs like blankets? Do dogs like sleeping under blankets? Generally, dogs do like blankets, but whether they sleep on them or under them can vary on their individual preferences.
Some dogs enjoy burrowing or snuggling beneath a blanket to stay warm, while others prefer to bunch a blanket into a ball and lay on it like a pillow. Some dogs may even have a quilt or throw that they like to carry around with them, much like a child with their special blanket.
Do Dogs Need Blankets?
Do Dogs Need Blankets?Generally, dogs don’t need blankets. Dogs that sleep “hot” may prefer to lie on a cold, bare floor, such as a tile floor or hardwood floor.
Small dogs that tend to be cold, such as Chihuahuas or Yorkies, may like blankets for warmth and security. Dachshunds may also enjoy blankets, not only because they get cold but because they were bred to hunt gophers in holes—blankets give them a chance to “burrow.”
As mentioned, some dogs like blankets to lay on rather than under. A bunched up blanket is a soft, cozy spot to relax, especially if the alternative is a hard floor.
Blankets are also a good choice for dogs recovering from a medical procedure. The blanket provides cushioning and comfort. Older dogs with arthritis will also like the padding and comfort of a fluffy blanket to lie on.
The Scent Connection
If your dog seems particularly attached to a throw blanket of yours, it may not be the blanket at all—it may be because it smells like you.
With over 100,000,000 olfactory receptors, dogs have a much keener sense of smell than humans. Research estimates that a dog’s sense of smell may be up to 40 times more acute than humans.
Dogs also have positive physiological responses to familiar smells, which could be their favorite treat or the familiar smell of their beloved owner—you. The blanket likely smells like you, even if you can’t perceive it, and evokes a positive response in your dog.
Can Blankets Help with Separation Anxiety?
If your dog has separation anxiety, giving it a blanket can help it feel connected to you even when you’re gone. Much like a child with a security blanket, a blanket with your scent or calming pheromones can give your dog the security of knowing they’re safe while you are gone.
It’s important to be careful about choosing a blanket, however. Young puppies are prone to chewing and may destroy a blanket, which can cause them to ingest fibers, buttons, or other decorative elements.
Avoid leaving your dog alone with the blanket, at least at first, since it can be a choking hazard if it chews. It’s best to choose a blanket that’s specifically designed for dogs, washable, and free from adornment and harsh chemicals.
In Conclusion
Dogs generally like blankets, whether to use as a pillow, for warmth, or for a sense of security. Your dog may choose a throw blanket in your home because it smells like you, or you can buy your dog a special blanket that’s all their own.
Related Reads:
- Best Dog Blankets – Reviews & Top Picks
- Why Does My Dog Steal My Blanket? 5 Reasons & How to Stop It
Featured Image Credit: SvetikovaV, Shutterstock
