Why does my dog dig at the floor?

Dogs usually dig on floors because they are looking for a comfortable place to rest. Boredom, or even stress and anxiety, can be the cause of why they are digging on your floor. Digging is usually an instinctual behavior to them, and with a higher prey drive, they usually dig on the ground or floor.

5 Reasons why dogs dig at the floor

Seeking for comfort and coolness

Have you ever seen your dog trying to dig on your floor? If yes, then maybe they are looking for comfort or coolness.

When the environment's temperature is too high, it is typical for dogs to find a much more comfortable place where they can rest.

One way they do that is to dig in the ground. And if they are just inside your house, they'll think of the floor as the ground. 

Usually, dogs try to create a shallow depression to lie in.

This gives them a much more comfortable spot to rest. It also makes them more secure.

Boredom and excess energy

Aside from finding comfort and coolness, dogs also dig on floors due to boredom.

When they are not receiving enough stimulation, either physically or mentally, they resort to other ways to spend the excess energy that they have.

It can be considered a way to entertain themselves. 

This is usually typical of dog breeds that are known for having high energy levels.

Without any outlets for them to spend that excess energy, you might have to expect your dog to dig on your floor frequently. 

Instinctual behavior

With dogs, digging is a natural behavior for them, so when they try to do it on your floor, maybe you don't have to worry so much.

This behavior is rooted in their ancestors, such as wolves and other wild canines. They usually dig to create dens for their shelter while also serving as protection to them.

So, even if your dog is domesticated, it is still in their instinct to create a safe and comfortable area where they can rest.

Even if it is not for survival, that instinctual behavior can still show up in domestic settings.

Stress and anxiety

Digging on floors can also be a sign that your dog is experiencing stress and anxiety. 

When dogs are feeling stressed or anxious, one of their ways to cope is for them to dig.

Usually, stress or anxiety in dogs can be a result of:

• Separation anxiety.
• Loud noises.
• Unfamiliar surroundings.
• Changes in routine.

When your dogs have experienced either of the four, they usually soothe themselves to release pent-up emotions by digging on the ground and, in this situation, floors.

Strong prey drive

Dogs that have a stronger prey drive tend to dig on floors.

This is because they usually try to catch insects, rodents, and other small creatures.

Even if there is no actual prey around, the sound or smell underground can be a trigger for them to dig, similar to hunting.

How do I stop my dog from scratching the floor?

Dogs need to be physically and mentally stimulated for them not to be bored. Make sure that they have a comfortable place where they can rest. 

Also, address any underlying issues that give them anxiety and stress. All these things can help prevent your dog from scratching the floor again.