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Top 10 Dog Breeds That Burrow Under Blankets for Temperature Control

By Jake Willhoite · · Updated

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Dogs have plenty of funny habits, from playing fetch to splashing in the pool. One of the most memorable is burrowing under blankets.

Many dogs love to tunnel under the covers, where they feel warm, cozy and secure.

If you love cuddling with your dog, you may want a breed that's known for burrowing under blankets.

10 Dog Breeds That Love Burrowing Under the Blanket

Many dogs burrow under blankets to some extent, but some breeds seem especially drawn to it.

Several of these breeds, like terriers and Dachshunds, were bred to hunt animals that live in dens and tunnels. Going to ground was part of their job.

So burrowing comes naturally to many of them. Small, short-coated dogs also tend to burrow for warmth. Any individual dog may or may not enjoy it, whatever its breed.

Some of the dog breeds that burrow under blankets include:

1. Beagles

Beagles are scent hounds that were bred to hunt rabbits in packs. Many Beagles like to curl up in cozy, enclosed spaces, and burrowing under a blanket gives them warmth and a sense of security.

If your Beagle likes to burrow, give it a soft blanket or a covered bed of its own.

Watch your own dog's behavior and preferences so you can give it a comfortable place to rest.

2. Shiba Inus

Shiba Inus aren't especially known for burrowing, but some individuals enjoy it. Shibas are a Japanese breed known for their independent and somewhat aloof nature.

Some Shiba Inus may like to burrow under blankets, especially if they find it cozy or want a sense of security.

Each dog is an individual, and its environment and personality shape its habits.

If your Shiba enjoys burrowing under blankets, it's likely a personal preference. A comfortable, safe place to sleep helps your dog rest well.

3. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are energetic dogs that were bred to hunt foxes, which meant following them into their dens. They have a strong prey drive and love to dig.

Not all Jack Russells share the same habits, but many like to burrow under blankets. It's a cozy, den-like spot that suits their instincts. A soft blanket in a safe spot lets them enjoy it.

4. Dachshunds

Often called sausage dogs, Dachshunds are known for burrowing. The name means "badger dog" in German, and the AKC traces the breed to badger-hunting dogs of the 1400s.

Their long body and short legs made them well-suited for entering burrows.

Because of this heritage, many Dachshunds love to tunnel under blankets or nestle into cozy spots.

If your Dachshund does this, it's likely an expression of its instincts and a way to get comfortable.

5. Siberian Husky

The Chukchi people of northeastern Siberia developed the Siberian Husky to pull sleds over long distances. Huskies came to Alaska in the early 1900s for sled dog racing, and their endurance and friendly temperament made them popular.

They have become popular as both working dogs and family pets.

Huskies are not generally known for burrowing under blankets. Siberian Huskies are a northern breed with a thick double coat that protects them from the cold.

In snow, Huskies may curl up and let snow cover them for insulation, and some dig a hollow to rest in. Indoors, a few individuals enjoy blankets, but many prefer cooler spots because of their heavy coat.

Huskies are independent dogs with their own habits, so watch what your dog prefers and adjust its sleeping area.

6. Norwich Terrier

The Norwich Terrier comes from East Anglia, England, and is named after the city of Norwich. It was bred to hunt rats and other vermin, and its fearless, determined nature made it an excellent working dog.

Kennel clubs recognize the breed, and today Norwich Terriers are popular both as companions and in dog shows.

Like many terriers, Norwich Terriers may enjoy burrowing, although individual dogs vary. Terriers were bred to go after small animals underground, so tunneling comes naturally.

These energetic dogs have a history as farm ratters.

The AKC lists the Norwich at about 10 inches tall and 12 pounds, but these small terriers were bold enough to work on vermin around farms and stables.

These dogs are affectionate and smart and pair well with active owners. Burrowing under a blanket is one way they get warm and comfortable.

7. Schnauzer

Schnauzers come in three sizes: giant, standard and miniature. The Standard Schnauzer is the original, bred in Germany as a farm dog for guarding and catching rats.

Schnauzers are versatile dogs with a distinctive look, known for their intelligence and devotion to their families.

If your Schnauzer enjoys burrowing under blankets, it may simply be a personal preference. A soft blanket or bed in a warm spot can help it feel cozy.

As with any dog, watch your Schnauzer's habits and adapt its sleeping space. If it seems happy burrowing, it's a natural behavior.

8. Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon was developed in Belgium in the 1800s from small terrier-type stable dogs crossed with the Pug and toy spaniels. It became a favorite of Belgian nobility and was later recognized as its own breed.

Brussels Griffons are known for their expressive, bearded faces. They are affectionate, intelligent and make good companions.

They are not specifically known for burrowing, but individual dogs have their own habits.

Some Brussels Griffons enjoy nestling under blankets for warmth and security, especially in colder weather.

9. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed recognized by the AKC, which lists them at 5 to 8 inches tall and no more than 6 pounds. Many Chihuahuas love to burrow or nestle under blankets.

There are a few reasons why Chihuahuas, in particular, may engage in burrowing behavior:

Seeking Warmth: Tiny dogs lose body heat quickly, so Chihuahuas tend to get cold easily. Burrowing under blankets helps them stay warm.

Security and Comfort: Burrowing under blankets can give a Chihuahua a sense of security, much like a cozy den.

A Space of Their Own: A blanket nest gives a Chihuahua a small, private spot to rest.

10. Cairn Terriers

This Scottish Highlands breed is one of the oldest terrier breeds. The AKC describes Cairns as "earthdogs" bred to root out foxes and other small animals.

The breed's name comes from "cairn," a pile of stones used as a landmark or memorial. Foxes and other small animals hid in these rock piles, and the terriers were bred to squeeze in after them.

The burrowing behavior of Cairn Terriers is tied to this history: they needed to dig and squeeze into tight spaces to reach their quarry.

Many Cairns still love to dig and burrow, including under blankets at home. If yours does, it's a natural behavior and a way to get warm and cozy.

Conclusion

If your dog loves to burrow, you may wonder where it should sleep. These breeds can sleep in your bed if you are comfortable with it, but expect them to tunnel under the covers.

Make sure your dog can easily get out from under the blankets, especially small dogs and older dogs. Many breeds enjoy burrowing, so if you love cuddling, one of the breeds above may suit you.

Read Also: How to Get The Dog Smell Out of Blankets

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do dogs love burrowing in blankets?

Burrowing gives dogs warmth, comfort and a sense of security. For breeds developed to hunt animals in dens, it also matches their instincts.

Should my dog sleep under the blankets?

It's usually fine if your dog chooses to burrow and can get out easily. Don't trap a dog under heavy covers, and keep an eye on small dogs, flat-faced breeds and dogs with breathing problems, which can overheat.

What type of dogs love burrowing in blankets?

Many burrowers were bred to hunt animals in dens and tunnels, such as Dachshunds and terriers. Small dogs that get cold easily, like Chihuahuas, also love to burrow.

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