Why do dogs sometimes "bury" their bones in blankets?

Dogs sometimes "bury" their bones in blankets due to instinctual behaviors rooted in their ancestry and survival strategies. This behavior is a fascinating blend of natural instincts and learned habits, and understanding it requires a look into both the evolutionary history of dogs and their modern-day behaviors.

1. Evolutionary Background and Instinctual Behavior:
Dogs are descendants of wolves, who are natural scavengers and hunters. In the wild, wolves and other canines often bury food to save it for later when resources are scarce. This behavior, known as caching, ensures they have a backup food source during times when prey is not readily available. Domestic dogs have inherited this instinct, even though they no longer need to hunt or scavenge for survival. When a dog "buries" a bone in a blanket, it is essentially mimicking the caching behavior of its wild ancestors.

2. Why Blankets Specifically?
Blankets provide a soft, malleable surface that resembles dirt or leaves, which wild canines would use to cover their food. Dogs may choose blankets because they are easily accessible in a home environment and can be manipulated to cover the bone effectively. The act of pushing, nuzzling, or scratching at the blanket to hide the bone is similar to how a wild dog would use its paws and nose to dig and cover food in the ground.

3. Practical Reasons for This Behavior:
In addition to instinct, there are practical reasons why dogs might bury bones in blankets. For example:
- Security: Dogs may feel the need to protect their prized possessions, such as bones or toys, from being taken by other pets or even humans.
- Comfort: Blankets are often associated with comfort and safety, so a dog might choose to hide its bone in a familiar and cozy spot.
- Boredom or Anxiety: Some dogs engage in this behavior as a way to occupy themselves or cope with stress. It can be a self-soothing activity.

4. Scientific Insights:
Research into canine behavior has shown that caching is a natural and adaptive behavior. Studies on wolves and wild dogs have documented their ability to remember the locations of buried food, sometimes for extended periods. While domestic dogs may not need to rely on this skill for survival, the instinct remains strong in many breeds, particularly those with a strong prey drive or working background.

5. Practical Tips for Dog Owners:
If your dog frequently buries bones in blankets, here are some tips to manage the behavior:
- Provide a designated digging area: If your dog enjoys burying items, consider creating a safe space, such as a sandbox or a specific blanket, where this behavior is allowed.
- Monitor resource guarding: If your dog becomes overly protective of buried items, it may indicate resource guarding. Work on training to reduce this behavior and ensure safety.
- Rotate toys and bones: Offering a variety of toys and bones can reduce the need to bury items, as your dog will have other outlets for its energy and instincts.

6. Potential Risks and Concerns:
While burying bones in blankets is generally harmless, there are a few risks to be aware of:
- Choking hazards: If the blanket is torn or the bone is small, there is a risk of choking or intestinal blockage if the dog ingests fabric or bone fragments.
- Hygiene issues: Bones and blankets can become dirty or harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly.
- Behavioral issues: Excessive burying or resource guarding may indicate underlying anxiety or stress that should be addressed.

7. When to Seek Professional Help:
If your dog's burying behavior becomes obsessive, interferes with daily life, or is accompanied by signs of anxiety or aggression, it may be time to consult a veterinarian or a certified dog behaviorist. These professionals can help identify the root cause of the behavior and provide tailored solutions.

8. Long-Term Care and Prevention:
To manage this behavior in the long term, ensure your dog has plenty of mental and physical stimulation through exercise, training, and interactive toys. Providing a stable and enriching environment can reduce the need for instinctual behaviors like burying.

In summary, dogs bury bones in blankets as a natural instinct rooted in their evolutionary history. While this behavior is generally harmless, understanding its origins and managing it appropriately can help ensure your dog remains happy and healthy.