Why Do Dogs Hide Things? 

Have you ever watched your dog hide something? Although it is interesting to watch, you may wonder why they are doing it. Dogs love hiding items for various reasons, ranging from instincts to stress. Regardless, this may become problematic if certain things continue to disappear (think about food bowls, for example). We will outline some of the most common reasons your four-legged friend hides items throughout the house.

It’s their natural instinct. Dogs have an instinct to hoard or guard their food and possessions. This might explain why dogs love to hide treats. It is an act of ownership, and they are “saving” it for later.

It’s a strategy for survival. Hiding a surplus of food in the ground is a canine survival strategy. The food can be preserved and protected in the cool ground. Dogs may also hide treats in the house to keep them away from other dogs.

It’s a sign of stress. Dogs who hide or protect their possessions may have stress or anxiety.

It’s a sign of underlying health issues. Keep in mind that hiding items are not always related to behavior. The habit could signify a health problem involving being overfed or bored.

There are ways that you can curb hiding habits. First of all, avoid giving dogs items like shoes, socks, or children’s toys. Establish a proper place where dog toys will be kept. If you see that they are trying to hide something, use the “come” command. Reward them with a treat once they bring the item back. Remember to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated to prevent boredom. This will help address the issue as well.