Shih Tzus are beloved pets, leading seemingly carefree lives filled with love and attention from their human companions. They have their routines, enjoy plenty of naps, and relish the affection they receive. These dogs sleep a lot – typically 12 to 15 hours a day. But have you ever wondered why they fidget and scratch so much in their sleep, especially if they share your bed? This guide explains the reasons behind this behavior and offers insights into how you can improve your sleep quality.
1. Territory Marking
Shih Tzus are creatures of habit and enjoy marking their territory. They scratch the bed for the same reason they pee on fire hydrants when out for a walk – it’s a way to assert ownership. This behavior becomes particularly noticeable if you have multiple pets at home, as they want to establish what’s theirs. Shih Tzus carry scent glands in various body parts, releasing pheromones that only dogs can detect. This is why they can become possessive of toys and pillows.
2. Natural Instinct
Before being domesticated, Shih Tzus had to rely on their instincts to survive in the wild. Scratching and digging were essential for creating a warm, safe sleeping spot, often using earth, grass, or wood chips. While they no longer need this survival skill, it’s deeply ingrained in their DNA, passed down through generations. You’ll observe this behavior when they scratch after relieving themselves or when a female is nesting, preparing for the birth of puppies.
3. Stress Relief
Shih Tzus scratch the bed as a way to calm themselves when feeling anxious or fearful. It’s a soothing action that helps them relax. Stress triggers can include a lack of exercise, loud noises like storms, or disruptive sleep patterns. If this behavior persists despite your efforts, consider consulting a vet for personalized advice, which may include establishing a morning exercise routine, offering comfort during anxious moments, and providing a quiet sleeping environment.
4. Habitual Behavior
Like humans, Shih Tzus are creatures of habit. Many develop the habit of scratching their beds, often observing this behavior in their mothers or other pets at home when they were puppies. This habit can persist regardless of their mood.
Preventing Bed Damage
While scratching is generally harmless, it can become a problem if your Shih Tzu starts damaging your home. To address this, have their nails professionally trimmed to prevent floor and furniture damage. Alternatively, consider investing in dog beds designed to resist nail damage or durable blankets to protect your belongings. Additionally, provide scratching toys like plush bears and large balls to redirect their behavior.
Why Shih Tzus Scratch and Kick in Their Sleep
Shih Tzus often scratch and kick in their sleep, which can have various causes. The most common reason is dreaming, a phenomenon supported by scientific research. Dogs enter the REM sleep stage, where dreams occur about 15 to 30 minutes after falling asleep. While this often results in harmless, seemingly playful movements, some dogs may experience nightmares. It’s essential not to wake them abruptly, as this can lead to instinctual reactions, including biting. Teaching children how to interact with a sleeping puppy is also crucial to prevent disturbances.
Sleep Disorders in Dogs
Keep an eye out for signs of sleep disorders if your dog isn’t sleeping peacefully. Symptoms can include excessive movement, loud snoring, frequent waking, and an inability to sleep for more than an hour. Two common sleep disorders in dogs are:
Insomnia: Rare in Shih Tzus, insomnia is typically caused by underlying issues such as fleas, skin irritations, or injuries. Consult your vet to address these problems and restore your dog’s sleep quality.
Narcolepsy: This neurological disorder can cause dogs to fall asleep suddenly during activity and forget what they are doing when they wake up. While it’s not fatal, there’s no cure, so vigilance and a safe environment are key.
In summary, most Shih Tzus scratch the bed, usually without cause for concern unless they exhibit seizure symptoms. These behaviors are often rooted in their instincts and habits. If scratching becomes a severe issue, consult your vet to rule out neurological problems. Otherwise, you can take steps to manage and redirect this behavior for a peaceful coexistence.