Why Do Dachshunds Like To Burrow? 5 Reasons To Know

Dachshunds are adorable, long-bodied little hounds with some quirky habits. One of their most puzzling behaviors is dachshund burrowing – that is, diving under blankets, pillows, or even tunneling into bedding. New dachshund owners often find their pup disappearing under the covers like a little mole. So, why do dachshunds like to burrow? Is this normal, and should you encourage it? In this guide, we’ll explore dachshund burrowing behavior and explain why these dogs love to dig and hide. 

Why Do Dachshunds Like to Burrow?

Dachshund burrowing behavior is completely natural. In fact, if you have a doxie, you’ve probably noticed how much they enjoy pawing at blankets and then snuggling underneath for a cozy nap. 

Not all dog breeds do this, so what makes dachshunds such avid burrowers? It turns out this habit is deeply ingrained in their breed history and temperament. Here are the main reasons dachshunds love to burrow:

Strong Hunting Instincts (It’s in Their Genes)

The number one reason your dachshund loves to burrow is simple: instinct. Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany for hunting small game that lives in tunnels and dens. 

These pups were designed to dig into badger holes and rabbit burrows. Their long, low bodies and strong paws made it easy to crawl through tight underground tunnels. This hunting background still shows in modern dachshunds. Burrowing is “deeply ingrained in their DNA”, as one dachshund expert puts it. 

Seeking Comfort and Security

Beyond genetics, dachshunds burrow because it feels comforting and safe. Dogs are pack animals by nature, and they love to cuddle up with their “pack”.

Snuggling under blankets close to you is your dachshund’s way of feeling bonded and secure. If your doxie burrows under the covers to sleep with you, take it as a compliment. It means they consider you a trusted pack member and want to be close.

Staying Warm and Cozy

Anyone who knows dachshunds knows these short-legged pups hate the cold. With their small size and relatively thin coats, dachshunds can get chilled easily and may even shiver in cool weather. Unlike some bigger breeds with thick fur, dachshunds aren’t built to handle low temperatures or damp conditions very well. No wonder your doxie might hesitate to go outside on a cold morning! 

Curling up under covers is an effective way for a dachshund to regulate their body heat. Just like we might throw a blanket over ourselves when we’re chilly, your pup knows that diving under the blanket will trap warmth and stop the shivers. Burrowing provides a dark, insulated little cocoon that helps them stay toasty. Even if the house isn’t cold, many dachshunds seem to just love the cozy sensation of being blanketed. 

Fun, Boredom Relief, and Nesting Instinct

Sometimes a dachshund’s digging or burrowing isn’t about need at all – it’s about fun and instinctual joy. Burrowing can provide mental stimulation and relieve boredom. Dachshunds are clever, energetic dogs that thrive on activities. If they don’t get enough play or exercise, they may turn to digging as a way to entertain themselves. 

Tunneling into a blanket or scrabbling at the rug can be a game for them, or a way to burn off extra energy.

Additionally, dogs often have a nesting instinct – you might observe your dachshund scratching or circling on blankets before lying down. This “digging” behavior is a leftover instinct from dogs in the wild that would tamp down grass or dirt to make a comfy bed. 

Your dachshund might dig at his dog bed or your sofa cushions to rearrange them just right for a nap. If you’re wondering “why is my dachshund digging” at the blankets or in the garden, the reasons could be similar to burrowing: instinct and entertainment. Without enough outlets for their energy, pent-up doxies may dig or burrow out of sheer boredom. Providing plenty of play, walks, and toys can help reduce any excessive digging that becomes a problem.

If you’re searching for dog toys that will keep your dog occupied and entertained, then check our collection of toys for dachshunds.

Stress or Anxiety (Comfort-Seeking Behavior)

In many cases, curling up under a blanket is simply a dachshund’s way of getting cozy. But if you notice excessive burrowing, especially accompanied by nervous behavior, it could be your pup is feeling anxious or stressed. Dachshunds are known to sometimes suffer from separation anxiety and can be sensitive to changes or loud noises. 

An anxious dachshund might burrow more frantically as a coping mechanism. Вasically, he/she will try to hide and self-soothe in a small space. They may dig at furniture or tear up blankets in an attempt to relieve stress.

Dachshund Burrowing Under Covers – Is It Safe?

Many new owners are amused by their dachshund burrowing under covers, but are also a bit worried. How do dachshunds breathe under blankets? Could my dog suffocate under there? The image of a little pup hiding completely under a big duvet can definitely raise questions! The good news is that, in general, dachshunds can breathe just fine under light blankets. They have a good sense of self-preservation and will come out if they’re uncomfortable.

Burrowing is a very normal behavior for dachshunds, and in most cases it’s perfectly safe. These dogs seem to have an instinctual understanding of how to nose their way to an opening for air. If the blankets are loosely piled, your doxie will usually poke their head out for fresh air when needed, or change position if they get too warm.

That said, there are a couple of precautions to keep in mind. Heavy or tightly tucked blankets could pose a risk if your dog can’t easily get out. In extremely rare cases, dachshunds have gotten trapped under a blanket that was tucked in too tight around a mattress. 

This scenario is very uncommon – longtime owners report it’s very unlikely for a dog to suffocate this way – but it’s still wise to be cautious. To be safe, don’t burrito your pup in and tuck the blankets super tight around them. Always leave an exit route (an open side or a gap) so they can crawl out when they want.

Also, consider the type of blanket. Using a lighter, breathable throw or a specially designed pet blanket is better than a super heavy comforter for burrowing dogs.  

If your pup starts panting heavily or struggling, encourage them to come out and cool off. Puppies or dogs with respiratory issues should be watched a bit more closely. But for a healthy dachshund, snuggling under a blanket is usually as safe for them as it is for you. In fact, most dachshunds absolutely love it! Just use common sense: give them breathable blankets, room to get out, and avoid letting them stay under if they seem overheated. With these simple precautions, your doxie can enjoy their undercover naps safely. 

Why You Need a Dachshund Burrowing Bed?

Given how much dachshunds love to burrow, one of the best things you can do as an owner is to provide a safe, cozy spot for this behavior. This is where a dachshund burrowing bed comes in handy. 

You might be wondering what exactly a “burrowing bed” is – essentially, it’s a dog bed designed to satisfy your pup’s urge to burrow. Often called cave beds, snuggle beds, or tunnel beds, these beds feature a soft, enclosed design.

Your dachshund can crawl inside, tuck themselves under the cover, and snooze in a warm, protected space made just for them. It’s like a built-in doggy den!

Burrow Beds Help in Dealing With Anxiety

Investing in a burrow bed is important because it gives your dachshund a dedicated place to fulfill their burrowing instinct without tearing up your blankets or furniture. Dogs naturally love having their own “den,” and a burrowing bed provides exactly that. It offers them comfort, security, and stress relief. 

Cave-style beds or “burrow beds” can make a dachshund feel more secure and satisfied by mimicking the small, hidden spaces they seek out in the wild. This means your pup not only stays comfy, but it can also help with anxiety by giving them a safe retreat when they feel overwhelmed or nervous.

Warm feeling soothes their joints

Another big benefit is warmth and joint support. Many burrow beds are made with soft plush and padding on all sides, which keeps your dachshund warm and cushions their body. Senior doxies or those with joint issues especially appreciate a supportive, soft bed. 

For example, a well-designed dachshund bed will use memory foam or thick padding to support their back and give them a feeling of being “hugged” from all sides (almost like how they feel sitting in your lap).

This all-around support can help ease anxiety and make them feel protected. The interior of these beds is usually lined with ultra-soft fabric to create a cozy haven that dogs adore.

What Is The Best Burrow Bed For Dachshunds?

There are several great burrow beds on the market, but one we highly recommend for dachshund owners is the Dachshund Tunnel Bed. This bed is specifically designed for the needs of dachshunds and other small burrowing breeds. 

It features a plush tunnel-like shape where your pup can dive in and hide, satisfying that urge to burrow in a safe way. The interior is super soft and padded, giving your dog a warm, cuddly spot to snooze. 

The half-covered tunnel entrance acts like a blanket that won’t fall off – your dachshund can easily slip inside and nestle, and the cover drapes over them like a comforting tent. 

Because the materials are lightweight and breathable, your doxie can sleep under the “hood” of the tunnel bed and still get plenty of airflow (no worries about breathing under there!). It basically offers all the perks of burrowing under a blanket, but with added safety and comfort tailored for your pet.

Dachshunds like to burrow! So, now what?

Since all Dachshunds like to burrow, this dog bed will be the perfect opportunity to provide them with their private space.

The Dachshund Tunnel Bed checks all the boxes: it’s cozy, supportive, and dachshund-approved. Owners report that their pups take to it immediately and often prefer it over the human bed!

By providing warmth, a sense of security, and a fun hideaway, a product like this can make your dachshund feel truly at home. Giving your dog their own burrow bed or “snuggle cave” can keep them happy and calm, since it aligns with their natural instincts. Plus, it keeps dog hair and mess confined to their bed instead of all over your blankets. It’s definitely a nice bonus for the owner. If you’re tired of accidentally sitting on a dachshund lump under your covers, a burrowing bed will solve that problem too!

Dachshunds love to burrow because it’s who they are. This crazy habit is rooted in their history as little badger hunters, and it gives them comfort, warmth, and a sense of security. So the next time you see your dachshund burrowing under covers, know that it’s perfectly normal – your pup is happy as a clam (or rather, as a badger in a burrow). You can encourage this healthy behavior by offering safe outlets, like a nice pile of blankets or a dedicated dachshund burrowing bed. Especially for new dachshund owners, setting up a cozy burrow bed can make a world of difference for your dog’s comfort and happiness. It lets them indulge their inner den-dweller without any downside.