Question

Why does my puppy like going under the couch?

Answer 1

Like so many other canine behavior, the answer isn't exactly straightforward.

Typically, it's a harmless behavior.

Dogs will hide under the bed (or another dark, small area) mostly because they find it a comfortable spot to relax and take a nap.

Answer 2

If your dog prefers to relax under the couch or other furniture, you can make it more enjoyable by placing a soft dog bed in the same area for added comfort. The downside of your dog hiding under the couch is it could be a sign of depression, anxiety, or illness. Most dogs seek a safe environment when they do not feel good.

Answer 3

Give him a small space, a box, where he can snuggle in and feel more secure. Dogs hide for safety, they'll go under beds and furniture to get into a more closed space to feel secure. That's resorting to their most basic instincts to feel safe. You have to give the puppy time to adjust.

Answer 4

Fearful Hiding. A loud noise, a new person or dog or simply having his paw accidentally stepped on can cause your puppy to become fearful. Hiding under the sofa, where the dog thinks he is safe from the cause of his fear, is a perfectly natural response. Once Lucky figures out that the sofa is a safe place, he will form a habit of retreating ...

Answer 5

Hiding under beds, tables, or other furniture is a common behavior in many dogs. Dog may hide under things due to fear, illness, or a simple desire for private space. If your dog starts hiding when...

Answer 6

The root of the behavior is a natural instinct in canines. This behavior does not need to be encouraged or discouraged. It is harmless and often helps your dog feel safe, cozy, and comfortable. The downside of your dog hiding under the couch is it could be a sign of depression, anxiety, or illness.

Answer 7

Hiding under the couch on occasion is good for your dog. It means he found a safe place to call his own and feels safe and comfortable in his den-like environment. Your dog is expressing the same type of behavior when the underlying reason is illness, depression or injury. Click to see full answer

Answer 8

Normally my dog is well-behaved but she has a TON of energy and a few hours of hiking and dog-parks aren't enough to keep her from being destructive so we play a bit of fetch in the house. She does perfectly fine playing fetch outside but when we're inside she just goes over to the couch, lays on the ground, bats at the ball, and knocks it under the couch.

Answer 9

If you think your puppy is playing a game of hide-and-seek each time he hides under the couch, think again. He might be hiding out of fear or maybe he just wants some peace and quiet. If the space under the couch is narrow, this behavior can be dangerous and your furry friend might get stuck.

Answer 10

Possible reasons why your dog sleeps under furniture are that it feels safer there, something is causing it to be fearful, it feels threatened, it finds it more comfortable there or that it does not want to be bothered. Since there are many different possible causes, it would help to consider what would make each of them more likely.