Why is my dog sucking on blankets?
Sucking on blankets is a common coping mechanism for many dogs and is typically harmless.
If your dog is sucking on blankets, there is no need for concern. Similar to humans, dogs have different coping mechanisms they use to deal with stress. Sucking on blankets is a common coping mechanism in puppies.
Suckling is a natural behavior for dogs
This behavior starts as a puppy and is often linked to the puppy’s experience after birth. The behavior resembles nursing from their mother, which not only gave the puppy nutrition but also provided comfort. As puppies grow and begin to wean off their mother’s milk, they sometimes seek comfort when scared by nursing, even if there is no milk.
Why is my dog sucking on blankets?
Missing the comfort of their mother
When a puppy is placed in their forever home, it may be nervous and may try to seek comfort. When the mother is not around, they may look for another object that is soft and feels like their mother’s skin. As puppies get more comfortable in their new home, they will sometimes grow out of this habit, although some will continue into adulthood. Sucking on a blanket may also be a way to soothe themselves during a thunderstorm, firework show, or another upsetting event.
They are teething
If your dog is chewing on everything, it could be teething. A puppy that is teething will experience discomfort and will try to find relief by chewing on toys, blankets, and anything else they can get to.
It is their comfort item
Dogs have items for comfort, just as people do. Sometimes dogs will use a blanket as their comfort item and suckle on it as they fall asleep. Other dogs will carry it around during the day. Although you should be sure, your dog isn’t becoming aggressive over their blanket.
Is sucking on a blanket bad for my dog?
As long as your dog doesn’t get aggressive and it doesn’t turn into a compulsive habit, there is nothing wrong with your dog sucking on a blanket. If sucking on a blanket does become compulsive, and your dog cannot stay away, then it is time to take action.
How to stop your dog’s blanket sucking
Sometimes dogs with a compulsion to suck on blankets will have a reason, and some won’t. Here are a few effective ways to help stop your dog’s compulsive behavior:
Determine what triggers their stress
Dogs will often turn to blanket sucking when they are stressed. When your dog starts this behavior, examine the area and try to find what, if anything, is causing your dog to turn to their blanket. If you can, remove the stressor or offer your dog another appropriate outlet.
Offer plenty of stimulation
Not getting enough mental or physical exercise can cause dogs to feel stress or anxiety. The best way to overcome this is to give your dog at least 20 minutes of physical activity each day and provide them with mentally stimulating toys or activities.
Seek veterinary help when needed
If the blanket sucking is to the point where you cannot handle it on your own, it might be best to talk with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can guide you on the best way to handle the compulsive behavior and possibly even refer you to a behavioral professional for your dog.
Conclusion
Blanket sucking is not a bad activity as long as it isn’t becoming a compulsive behavior or causing your dog to become aggressive toward you or others. Typically, sucking on a blanket comforts the dog and will help them cope with the stressors in its life.
