Why is my dog barking and scratching at the floor? What to Know

Why is my dog scratching the floor at night?

One of the main reasons for a dog scratching the floor at night has to do with nesting. They want to be in a comfortable and secure location, so they will scratch before they decide to lay down for the night. Back in the day, dogs would do this in the wild to create themselves a small den to curl up into.

Why Do Dogs Scratch The Floor Before Eating?

Dogs scratch the floor before eating, mainly out of habit. Here are some of the reasons why this habit arises.

Dogs in the past used to hide food to either eat later or to hide their tracks from other predators who may try to steal it from them. This instinct stuck, which is probably why your dog tries to scratch the floor before or while they eat.

Dogs love food, and this is not a secret. If your dog is excited enough about their mealtime, they could end up scratching your floors to redirect all their elation. These dogs also display habits like barking or growling while they eat, as well as eating very quickly.

Finally, your dog could be scratching the floor before eating to scare aware anyone or any other pet in the house that the dog fears will try to take their food. By scratching the floor around the food, the dog is basically marking that entire territory as their own.

As a dog owner and breeder, I have always wondered why my cavoodle Harlow is constantly scratching our tiled floor. She has done this strange behaviour ever since she was a puppy.

In pregnant dogs, nesting is a sign the birth is near. They need to prepare a nest/den to give birth and raise their pups.

If your dog is bored they are more likely to scratch and dig. And if your dog has excess energy same thing. So simple solution is more exercise. Or giving them a treat to keep them occupied. Like my Boredom Buster Box.

Most of us would rather our dog play with toys. Some dogs simply get a kick out of scratching at the floor. Go figure!

They see their nest as a safe place for when they are felling scared, frightened or overwhelmed.

Why do Dogs Scratching the Floor at Night? This fact will shock you

The sweat that is released from special glands on the bottom of the paws is a unique scent that is enhanced when your dog scratches at the ground or floor. When this scent is released it serves as a means for your dog to claim their territory. The most simple reasoning behind this scratching behavior is entertainment.