Why does my dog nibble on blankets? it’s not a common behavior, but it’s one you might have noticed in your furry friend. Like many other bizarre canine behaviors, blanket chewing or ‘sucking’ is more common in some breeds. Spaniels and Dobermans, Daschunds, Border Collies, and certain Terrier breeds are more likely to chew their bedding.
So, why does my dog nibble on blankets?
Why does my dog nibble on blankets?
Nibbling is an action some dogs do to other dogs or humans to signal their desire to play. It’s also a way that your dog explores the world around them, especially strange new objects they may encounter. If your furry friend is busily nibbling their blanket, it could be for all manner of reasons. Although it isn’t usually a problem, you shouldn’t encourage this behavior. Your dog could get a bit too excited and start to bite.
Why Does my dog Nibble on Blankets – Impulsive Behavior
Puppies are naturally inclined to nibble, and this is a natural instinctive behavior. Puppies will learn to nibble together and play with their siblings by gently biting each other. A blanket is a good alternative to the puppy’s siblings. This affectionate style of play is also the kind of behavior they took part in with their mother.
This is not only an instinctive behavior but also one of the most common behaviors in teething. As with babies, puppies gravitate to anything that can help them feel better.
You can even purchase dog chew toys to help get through their teething process.
Why Does My Dog Nibble On Blankets – Boredom
Boredom can set in if your furry friend spends a lot of time at home alone while you are out and about. Dogs might try to find something to entertain themselves with by nibbling on objects such as blankets. An excellent method to stop this is to give your dog the opportunity to socialize and play with other dogs. If this isn’t possible, your dog would be equally excited to spend some quality fun time with you, at least before you go to work.
Boredom can be reduced if someone is able to play with your dog or take them for a walk while you are working. This simple method will reduce any extra energy throughout the day, and you can then take your dog for a run or walk after work.
Dogs can’t tell what they should or shouldn’t eat. It is your responsibility to teach your dog what toys are acceptable and what are not. It’s a good investment to buy toys for your dog that they can chew while you’re gone. However, they might even be happy with a simple stick.
Your possessions will be protected if your dog is given enough chew toys to keep them occupied. Use a bitter chew repellent spray if there is something you particularly want to be protected. Your furry best friend certainly won’t enjoy the bitter taste, and it will make them think twice about nibbling or chewing anything valuable or sentimental.
Why Does My Dog Nibble On Blankets – Instinct
Canines are naturally inclined to nibble and bite on objects. Puppies learn how to control their biting and nibbling while playing with the litter from a young age. If one of their puppies bites another too hard, they may cry or yell, letting the other know it hurt and the nibble was too painful. All dogs might nibble on blankets at some point in their lives, but certain breeds are more susceptible than others. Due to their predator instincts, hunting dogs such as spaniels or dachshunds are more inclined to nibble a blanket.
It can become a bad habit if your dog starts to nibble on objects. Sometimes your dog may even nibble on you when you play together. Chewing can soothe and relax your dog. Chewing is similar to a baby sucking a thumb. It gives your dog the same feeling of security and safety, while also helping them to calm down. You may see your dog nibble on something to calm down their excitement when they meet strangers.
Stressed Dogs or Anxious Dogs
Dogs with anxiety or stress may nibble on their blankets. Dogs with separation anxiety may also try to nibble on you when you return home. This is a way of showing that they love you and are happy you are back.
Your dog may also start to nibble their blanket if they are exposed to stressful situations, such as noises from other people or animals. If this is the case, you should get your dog out of stressful situations as soon as possible to allow them to calm down.
Why Do Dogs Nibble On Blankets – A Sign of affection
When a dog is around other dogs, nibbling is used as a sign of friendship. Dogs groom other dogs and show affection by nibbling at their ears or necks. A lone dog might try to nibble their blanket as an alternative.
Your dog may nibble on you to let you know they want to play. Your furry friend may try to nibble your hand if he is having a good time.
This is all totally normal behavior for puppies.
Some adult dogs still use nibbling to get attention from you, especially if you are busy with work.
hunger can cause Nibbling
While your dog might be enjoying their food and eating well, nibbling could indicate that his diet lacks nutrients and calories. Hair loss, changes in the feces, energy deficiency, and other symptoms are all signs of nutritional deficiencies. Dogs’ energy levels are affected by their calorie intake. You may notice your dog becoming less active or lying down if he doesn’t get enough calories. To ensure your dog’s food is healthy and nutritious, choose the best dog food by checking on the food labels that there is a statement that claims that the food conforms to the Association of American Feed Control Officials guidelines. This lets you know for sure that the food includes all the daily nutrients your dog requires.
Why Do Dogs Nibble Blankets – pain
It’s common for dogs to experience pain due to allergies or teething. There are many ways that you can help your dog cope with pain.
Pups can feel pain while teething, just like humans. This can be alleviated by nibbling on a blanket or chew toys. To soothe and numb sore gums, you can put a wet cloth or chew toy in the freezer.
Allergies can also affect dogs. Skin irritation can be caused by food, pollen and mold, soaps, pesticides, or excessive scratching.
Whenever possible, you should try to eliminate the allergens in the area that your dog is going to be spending the majority of their time.
You should discourage your dog from nibbling, even though this is a natural instinct for most dogs.
Dogs are born to nibble and chew, like infants they will put things in their mouths to explore the world around them.
If your dog nibbles on blankets or other inappropriate objects, it is best to get rid of them.
However, to help your dog’s natural instinct to nibble the correct way, give them a chew toy. Dogs love to chew toys, so make sure to change them every few days.
Conclusion
Why does my dog nibble on blankets? Dogs instinctively nibble, it’s a fun and soothing way for dogs to express themselves. They are mostly just playing and passing time. Nonetheless, dogs will also nibble when they are bored, lonely, scared, in pain, or stressed.
Knowing what to look out for will help you determine the needs of your dog.
If your dog nibbles vigorously on their blanket, and you are worried that your furry friend may be causing harm to themselves, use positive methods to ween your dog off their blanket. Embrace chew toys, exercise, and socialization.
Dogs that are happy, healthy, and feeling content probably won’t feel the need to nibble their blanket or not with any intensity.
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Disclaimer
All information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace your veterinarian’s advice.