Many pet owners have had the experience of walking into their bedroom to see their dog rubbing themself all over their bed. Although this is usually not a big deal to most dog wonders, to some, it can become a problem, especially if their dog likes to clean themselves on the bed after getting dirty. No matter your situation, you have likely asked yourself: why does my dog rub itself on my bed?
Your dog rubs itself on your bed to get its scent on it. Rubbing is comforting to dogs and is also a way for them to clean themselves. In some instances, dogs may rub themselves on the bed due to underlying health issues or allergies.
This article will explain all of the most common causes for your dog rubbing himself on your bed. We will also describe when you should see a vet and whether or not your dog’s habit is usual. Here is why your dog might be rubbing himself on your bed.
10 Reasons Your Dog Rubs Itself On Your Bed
There are ten main reasons why your dog is rubbing himself on your bed. They range from natural canine behaviors to the symptoms of severe health issues. Here are ten reasons your dog rubs himself on your bed.
Your Dog Is Rubbing Their Scent On It
A prevalent cause of dogs rubbing themselves on anything is trying to get their scent on it. This could be because of many different things.
However, they are most likely doing this because they are trying to mask a scent they do not like, such as a detergent or fabric softener. They may also be trying to mark it as a part of their territory.
They Like Your Scent
Like dogs rubbing on things to put their scent on them, dogs also commonly rub on objects to get the object’s scent onto them. Many dogs rub themselves on their owner’s bed because they like the smell of their owner.
It’s Comforting To Dogs
As we have just mentioned, many dogs rub themselves on their owner’s bed because they like the smell of their owner, and many dogs find this smell comforting.
Although your dogs finding your scent comforting is often nothing to worry about, it can also be a sign of anxiety, especially separation anxiety.
It’s Fun For Your Dog
Some dogs like to rub themselves on their owner’s bed just because they think it’s fun. This is especially true if you find them digging or buroughing themselves in your blanket in addition to rubbing on them. They think it is all just a fun game.
Dogs Are Cleaning Themselves
Your dog may be rubbing on your bed because they are trying to clean themselves. This can become a problem, especially if they do this after a muddy walk.
The best thing that you can do if this is the cause of your dog’s habit is to limit their exposure to your bed and other soft furniture until they are dry after a bath.
It Feels Good To Your Dog
Your bed is soft, so your dog might be rubbing himself on it just because it feels good! However, the cause of your dog’s rubbing is most likely a combination of this and another reason on this list.
Your Dog May Have A Skin Condition
Your dog may be rubbing because they are itchy from a skin condition such as dermatitis. If this is the case, your dog will most likely have red skin and hair loss around the areas he itches the most.
If this is the cause of your dog’s rubbing habits, then you must visit the vet. Doing so will prevent a skin infection from developing and improve your dog’s quality of life.
Your Dog Has Allergies
Your dog might be rubbing himself on your bed because they have itchy skin from allergies. This is more common than you might have previously believed. If this is the cause of your dog rubbing himself on your bed, then their condition can be easily treated by a vet.
Infections Might Be Bothering Your Dog
Excessive itching can lead to a skin infection over time if left untreated. Unfortunately, this often causes the dog to want to itch and rub on things more.
If you suspect that your dog has a skin infection, don’t wait! Visit a vet as soon as you can to prevent further complications. Some other symptoms of skin infections are:
● Discolored scabs (yellow, green, etc)
● Pus around scratch sites
● Swelling
● Fever
● Lethargy
In addition to this, you should visit a veterinarian if your dog ever has any open wounds on his body due to itching or other causes.
They Have Parasites
Your dog may also be rubbing himself on your bed and itching as a result of a parasitic infection. External parasites like fleas and mites can cause itchy and uncomfortable skin.
In addition to this, worms may cause your dog to rub his butt on your bed. If you suspect that your dog has a parasitic infection, you should visit a vet immediately. They will likely be able to treat your dog’s condition quickly and easily.
Is It Normal For Dogs To Rub Itself On The Bed
For the most part, yes, it is normal for dogs to rub on your bed. Transferring scent is an entirely natural and normal canine behavior. In addition to this, rubbing and digging on your bed may be instinctual hunting behavior for some dogs as well, especially terriers.
Why Does My Dog Rub Her Face On My Bed
Your dog could technically be rubbing his face on your bed in an effort to transfer scents. This is most likely the cause and nothing to be alarmed about.
Why Does My Dog Rub Her Nose On My Bed
Like rubbing faces on the bed, a dog rubbing his nose on the bed could be the result of allergies. This is because an itchy nose is a common allergy symptom.
Why Does My Dog Rub His Face On Bed After Eating
Your dog habitually rubbing his face on your bed is most likely caused by one of two reasons. The first is that he is cleaning himself after a meal, especially if your dog has eaten wet food.
They may have some stuck in their face’s fur, and they are trying to get it off. The next possible cause is that your dog has a food allergy. After eating, he gets an itchy face and feels compelled to rub it on your bed.
Why Does My Dog Go Crazy On My Bed
There are several reasons why your dog might go crazy on your bed. The first is that they are just trying to get more comfortable before laying down. This is just like a dog circling before lying down but more extreme.
The next possible cause is that they are playing and/pr haven’t gotten enough exercise that day. The best solution to this is to ensure that they receive an appropriate amount of exercise during the day. Finally, this could be a symptom of stress or anxiety.
5 Things To Consider About Dogs Rubbing Themselves On The Bed
Although we have previously mentioned the most common causes for dogs rubbing themselves on their owners’ beds, there are some other things that you should consider.
Is The Rubbing Excessive
If the rubbing is excessive, then you should be on the lookout for skin infections developing. Excessive rubbing is usually caused by an illness or as a result of extreme stress or anxiety. In rare cases, it could be caused by canine OCD as well.
Does Your Dog Show Any Signs Of An Illness Or Infection?
You must visit the vet if your dog is showing any signs of an illness or infection. This is especially true if your dog is rubbing and itching excessively or shows any signs of a skin infection.
Does Your Dog Have Anxiety
As we have previously mentioned, your dog could be rubbing themselves on your bed due to anxiety. If this is the case, then visiting a vet or a veterinary behaviorist could be useful.
Is Your Dog Cleaning Themselves
If your dog is cleaning themselves on your bed, then you probably want them to stop. Luckily, this can be easily prevented by blocking off areas such as your bedroom when dirty and still wet after a bath.
It’s Most Likely Normal
Most cases of dogs rubbing themselves on beds are entirely normal, and many dogs do it. Don’t worry!
Leave a comment