Help! My Dog Won’t Stop Sleeping Under the Covers! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“My dog Snickers insists on sleeping under the covers like a human. Is this a weird quirk, or does he think he’s part of the family now?” – Geoff
Quick Info about Snickers
📹 Vet's Video Reply (scroll down to see text answer)
Hi Geoff! Dogs also like comfort and coziness, and if you live in a colder area, Snickers is just enhancing his slumber. Remember that their ancestors rested in dark and protected dens so it’s only natural. Once dogs learn that something is possible and allowed, especially if it brings them extra comfort or some sort of gratification, it is perfectly natural for them to repeat. But just for you to know, it happens even in experts’ homes: check out our very own Dr. Karyn’s struggles with Poppy!
You might also find the following tips on How to Get Your Dog to Use Their New Dog Bed helpful and might even want to consider getting Snickers a heated bed if you think he is after the warmer temperature or getting him his own blankets, too. One more tip, you might have to make it physically impossible for Snickers to get to your bed while he warms up to the idea of having his own.
Kind regards,
Dr. Paola