Why Dogs Drag Their Blankets & How Our Blankets Can Help

In the majority of cases, it’s entirely normal, but possible causes for a dog dragging their blanket round the house can be: marking territory with their scent, instinctual nesting behaviour, or seeking safety and comfort.

Other examples of natural causes:

While the 3 examples above are the main causes as to why your dog brings their favourite dog blanket everywhere with them, there are other causes which should be noted:

• Play purposes – especially if they also like tugging on fabric or specific dog toys bought for them.
• Moderate boredom or seeking more attention from their owners.
• Separation anxiety (read our blog on whether a dog blanket can help with separation anxiety)
• Mimicking den-building – this instinctual behaviour reflects how wild dogs and wolves prepare safe, comfortable spaces for resting.
• Teething or chewing habits (particularly common for puppies to soothe sore gums).
• Imitating past learned behaviour – dogs often repeat behaviours they’ve seen before, including blanket dragging.
• Maternal instinct – creating a safe place for puppies to be born (females only, obviously!)

When to be concerned about blanket dragging

While excessive blanket chewing or obsessive dragging can signal stress or boredom, owners should observe if their dog seems overly fixated or if the behaviour causes damage. If this is the case, it is advised to consult a vet or dog behaviourist.

How to support your dog’s blanket-dragging behaviour

At Dog Accessories UK, we always recommend that you have multiple blankets so your pooch can always find comfort in the event that a blanket goes missing or is destroyed and in need of a replacement. Thankfully we offer blankets at an incredibly affordable price at just £7.99! Along with soft, washable blankets, always try to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated via walks and interactive dog toys.

In conclusion:

Your dog is probably demonstrating entirely natural behaviour, learned instinctively from their ancestors who also moved around their habitat marking territory and finding safe places for shelter and sleep. Although, they probably didn’t have the benefit of today’s soft and plush pet specific blankets!