Why Does My Dog Bury Food or Toys? 🐶🦴

Have you ever given your dog a treat, only to watch them run off and bury it in the garden, under a blanket, or even in the couch cushions? While it may seem like odd behaviour, there’s actually a natural instinct behind it.

Let’s explore why dogs bury their food and toys—and whether you should be concerned!

1️⃣ It’s an Instinct from Their Wild Ancestors 🐺

In the wild, dogs’ ancestors didn’t always know when their next meal would come, so they would bury extra food to keep it safe for later.

This behaviour, called "caching," allowed wolves and wild dogs to store food away from scavengers and return to it later when food was scarce.

Even though your dog gets regular meals, this instinct is still deeply ingrained!

2️⃣ They’re Saving It for Later 🍖

Some dogs hide treats or chews simply because they aren’t hungry right now but don’t want to risk losing them.

🐾 Common hiding spots include:✅ Under blankets or dog beds✅ Between couch cushions✅ In the garden (for outside dogs)

Dogs may return later when they’re in the mood for a snack!

3️⃣ It’s a Sign of Enjoyment & Security 🏡

If your dog buries their favourite toys or chews, it could mean they value them highly and want to keep them safe.

Just like we store sentimental items, dogs may hide their most prized possessions—especially if they feel comfortable in their environment.

🐾 This is often seen in happy, well-adjusted dogs that feel secure in their home.

4️⃣ They’re Trying to Protect Their Food or Toy 🛡️

In multi-dog households, some dogs bury food or toys to prevent other pets from taking them.

Even if no one else in the house is interested, they might still feel a need to "guard" their possessions—especially if they were the runt of a litter or had to compete for food as a puppy.

🐾 If food aggression or resource guarding is an issue, consider training exercises to help build trust.

5️⃣ They’re Bored or Anxious 😟

Some dogs bury things as a way to relieve boredom or anxiety. If they don’t have enough mental stimulation, they might start hiding objects around the house as a way to stay entertained.

🐾 Solution? More enrichment! Try puzzle toys, extra walks, or new activities to keep their minds engaged.

6️⃣ Some Breeds Are More Likely to Bury! 🐾

Certain breeds have a stronger instinct to dig and bury than others. These include:🐾 Terriers (like Jack Russells, who were bred to dig for rodents)🐾 Dachshunds (originally bred for burrowing into tunnels)🐾 Huskies & Malamutes (who instinctively dig to create cool resting spots)

If your dog is one of these breeds, burying items may be a completely normal behaviour!

Should You Be Concerned?

✅ Burying food and toys is normal instinctive behaviour.⚠️ If they bury food but never return to eat it, be cautious of spoiled treats.⚠️ If the behaviour becomes obsessive, it could indicate anxiety or stress.

How to Manage Excessive Burying?

🐾 Limit access to too many treats or toys – This can reduce their urge to "save" things.🐾 Provide more mental stimulation – More walks, games, and interactive toys can help.🐾 Use positive reinforcement training – Reward them for eating treats right away instead of hiding them.

Final Thoughts

Dogs bury food and toys because of their natural instincts, enjoyment, or a need to protect their resources. While it’s usually harmless, if it becomes excessive or obsessive, it may be a sign of stress or anxiety.

🐾 Does your dog love to bury things? Tell us their funniest hiding spots in the comments! 🐶🦴😂