We all want the best for our pet. We choose a bed with shape memory, soft fabric, orthopedic effect. We delivered it, put it in the corner, put a toy there, and then – disappointment. The dog came back, did a lap, sniffed… and laid down on the cold floor. Why is that? 5 reasons why this might have happened:
1. Natural instinct and thermoregulation
Dogs are descendants of wild animals. Their behavior is often dictated by physiology rather than comfort. In hot weather, the floor (especially tile) is a natural way to cool down. Even the most expensive recliner can’t compete with the nice cool feeling of tile or laminate.
2. The odor is not “your own.”
A new recliner has the smell of packaging, factory, even transportation. To us, it’s subtle, but to the dog, it’s screaming. The dog often ignores new items until they “dial” the familiar odor of the house or owner. That’s why some dogs don’t settle on a bed until a few weeks later.
3. uncomfortable – from the dog’s point of view
We put the bed in the corner – to be cozy. But the dog is a guardian. She wants to see who walks where, who enters the room, and where her people are. If the recliner is far away from the active center of events, Tail just ignores it. Or. moves her “bedroom” closer to you.
4. The recliner is too soft or too loose
Not all dogs like to “sink”. Some breeds (especially short-haired or thin-skinned breeds) may feel insecure on a surface that is too soft. If a dog can’t find a stable position, he’s more likely to choose a floor where everything is stable.
5. Strategy is all about comfort and freedom
Sometimes a dog simply chooses a space. The floor is large, open, with no boundaries. On a recliner, it’s not so easy to stretch your paws in all directions or roll over without the risk of falling. It’s simple: lying on the floor is more comfortable.
How to get your dog used to a new recliner
Put something with your scent on it, like an old t-shirt or a blanket that your dog already loves. Move the bed to a place where the dog rests most often, or where he can see all the entrances and exits, so he’ll feel at ease. You can use familiar toys or give a treat every time the dog lies down on a new “bed”. The main thing – do not force. Create an association with safety, comfort and reward – and in time he will choose this space for sleep.
Bottom line
As strange as it may seem, a dog that ignores a new expensive bed is not a manifestation of ingratitude or stubbornness. It is the result of a combination of instincts, physiology, comfort and habits. Each dog is an individual and his choice always has a logical (from his point of view) explanation. Our job is not to impose our ideas of comfort on her, but to observe, understand and, if necessary, gently guide her. After all, love is the ability to accept that sometimes gender is the best place in the world. 😁
