Have you ever wondered why do dogs suck on blankets? It’s a mystery to most dog owners, but there are a few different reasons why dogs do this.
Dogs have a long and complicated history with blankets. For some dogs, blankets are a source of comfort and security. For others, they are a source of anxiety and stress. For others, they are just a chew toy. But why do some dogs suck on blankets?
6 Reasons Why Do Dogs Suck On Blankets
The answer to this question is complex and multifaceted. It is related to a combination of factors, including genetics, early experiences, and learned behaviors. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.
Genetics
Genetics is one factor that can influence a dog’s propensity to suck blankets. Some dogs are born with a greater desire to nurse than others. This desire may be rooted in their ancient wolf ancestors, who often ate their mother’s fur for comfort and nourishment.
Early experiences
Another factor that plays a role in a dog’s blanket sniffing behavior is early experiences. If a puppy is often left alone during the formative weeks and months, they may sniff the blanket as a way to self-soothe. This behavior may also be a way to get the attention they crave.
Learned behaviors
Finally, some dogs may develop a habit of blanket sucking as a result of learned behaviors. If the dog is frequently rewarded for sniffing their blanket (eg, with attention or treats), they are more likely to continue to do so. This behavior is also a way for dogs to self-soothe in stressful situations.
They are teething
Puppies go through the teething process when their adult teeth start coming in. This is a painful process, and puppies may try to soothe their gums by sucking on the blanket.
They have a health condition.
Certain medical conditions can cause dogs to inhale blankets, such as pica (compulsion to eat non-food items) and compulsive licking. If your dog is sniffing the blanket, it is important to consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions.
They are used to doing that.
Some dogs are trained to sniff blankets as a behavior modification technique. For example, anxious dogs can be taught to sniff a blanket to calm them.
So, why do dogs suck on blankets? The answer is a combination of genetics, early experiences, and learned behaviors. If you are concerned about your dog’s blanket sniffing habit, talk to your vet. They can help you determine if there is an underlying medical condition or behavioral problem that needs to be addressed.
Should You Stop Your Dog From Sucking On Blankets?
Assuming you’re a new pet parent, you may be wondering if it’s normal for your dog to suck blankets. The answer is yes, it is perfectly normal! In fact, sucking on the blanket is often considered a sign of comfort and security.
Many puppies are born with a strong sucking instinct. This is because sucking on a blanket provides them with nutrition and comfort. For some puppies, sucking on a blanket is also a way to calm down when they’re feeling anxious or stressed.
As your pup grows into adulthood, he may continue to suck on your blanket as a way to calm himself. This is especially true if they have experienced some type of traumatic event, such as relocation or loss of a family member.
Also Read: Why Your Dog Should Be On Leash In Public Areas
If you’re concerned about your dog’s blanket licking habit, there are a few things you can do to help him feel more comfortable and secure. Providing them with their own special blanket or a toy to suck on will help them feel like they have a safe place to turn to when they feel anxious.
You can also try training your dog to stop sucking on his blanket. This can be tricky as it is such a natural and instinctive behavior for them. But with patience and positive reinforcement, you can help your dog learn that sucking on the blanket is not allowed.
Above all, remember that sucking on the blanket is not harmful to your dog. This is perfectly normal behavior that can provide them with a sense of comfort and security. If you are concerned about your dog’s blanket licking habit, speak to your vet or a professional dog trainer for advice.
Why do dogs hold blankets in their mouth?
There are a variety of reasons why dogs may have blankets in their mouths. For some dogs, it can be a way to calm down or settle down.
The act of holding something in their mouths can help them focus and feel more relaxed. For other dogs, holding a blanket in their mouths can be a way to express excitement or happiness. Some dogs may also do this simply because they enjoy the taste or texture of the blanket.
Whatever the reason, it’s clear that dogs like to have blankets in their mouths! If your dog is constantly stealing your blankets or towels, he may want to invest in some dog-specific blankets or towels to call his own. This will help keep your things clean and dry, and give your dog a sense of security and comfort.
Do German shepherds are more prone to suck on blankets?
Did you know that German Shepherds are also more likely to suck on blankets than other dog breeds?
It is true! German Shepherds are more likely to suck on blankets, towels, and even clothing than other dog breeds. This behavior is called “blanket sucking” and is normal behavior for German Shepherds.
Blanket sucking is usually seen in puppies and young dogs, but some German Shepherds continue to do it well into adulthood. It is not known exactly why German Shepherds are more prone to blanket sucking, but it is believed to be a way to relieve stress or anxiety.
If your German Shepherd is sucking on blankets, there’s no need to worry. This is normal behavior and is not harmful to your dog. In fact, some dog experts believe that blanket sucking may be beneficial for German Shepherds.
So if your German Shepherd loves blankets, don’t worry! This is normal behavior and nothing to worry about.
What breeds of dogs are more prone to suck on blankets?
There is no definitive answer when it comes to which breeds of dogs are more prone to sucking on blankets. However, there are a few breeds that are commonly cited as being more likely to engage in this behavior.
These include Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers. Some people believe that this behavior is more common in short-faced breeds, as they may be seeking comfort from the pressure on their chests.
Other people believe that it is simply a matter of individual temperament and that any breed of dog could be prone to sucking on blankets. If you are concerned that the dogs is engaging too much in this behavior, it is best to consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.
How to control my dog that is heavily sucking on Blankets?
The first step is to find out why your dog is sucking on blankets. It may be due to anxiety, boredom, or something else. Once you know the reason, you can take steps to address the behavior.
If your dog sucks on blankets a lot, it’s important to take steps to prevent potential damage to your home. There are a few things you can do to help control the situation.
First, it’s important to provide your dog with an alternate way to satisfy his sucking urge. This can be done by providing them with a chew toy or bone. If your dog has nothing else to satisfy his urge, he is more likely to suck on blankets.
Second, you can try to keep your dog off blankets altogether. This can be difficult, but it’s worth a try. If your dog is used to sleeping with a blanket, you can try getting him to sleep slowly without one.
Third, you can try training your dog not to suck on the blankets. This can be done by using positive reinforcement when your dog is not sucking on blankets. For example, you can give your dog a treat when he stops sucking on the blankets.
Fourth, if all else fails, you can always consult with a professional trainer or behaviorist. They will be able to help you find a solution that works best for you and your dog.
What chews can i provide to my dog as an alternative?
So what can you do to provide your dog with an alternative to sucking on blankets?
One option is to provide your dog with a variety of chew toys. There are all kinds of different chew toys on the market, so you should be able to find one that your dog likes. You can also try giving your dog rawhide chews, which are safe for dogs to chew on and can help keep their teeth clean.
Another option is to try to discourage your dog from chewing on blankets in the first place. If you find your dog chewing on a blanket, try redirecting his attention to something else, like a chew toy. You may also consider using a bitter spray on your blankets, which can help discourage your dog from chewing on them.
Whichever option you choose, it’s important to provide your dog with a safe and healthy alternative to blanket chews. By doing so, you can help avoid many potential problems down the road.
Final Thoughts
Dogs have a lot of interesting behaviors, and one of them is sucking on blankets. This behavior is most commonly seen in puppies, but some adult dogs do it too. There are a few possible explanations for why dogs suck on blankets.
One theory is that it’s a way for dogs to self-soothe. If they’re feeling anxious or stressed, sucking on a blanket can help them relax. Another possibility is that dogs learn to associate the smell of their blanket with comfort and security, and sucking on it helps them feel closer to their owner.
Whatever the reason, sucking on blankets is perfectly normal dog behavior, and there’s no need to be concerned about it. If your dog sucks on blankets, just make sure the blanket is clean and safe for them to chew on.
