Why Do Chihuahuas Burrow? 8 Real Reasons Behind This Behavior
Chihuahuas are known for their adorable size and loving personalities, but one of their most fascinating traits is their love for burrowing. Whether it’s under blankets, pillows, or even inside clothes, these little dogs have a deep-rooted instinct to dig and hide. So, why do Chihuahuas burrow?
In this article, we will uncover the 8 real reasons why Chihuahuas burrow, based on their history, instincts, and current needs. We'll also provide helpful tips on how to ensure your Chihuahua is comfortable while respecting their natural behavior. If you’ve ever wondered why your Chihuahua seems to disappear under your blankets, this article is for you.
1. Burrowing is an Instinct
Before Chihuahuas became the beloved pets we know today, their ancestors relied on burrowing for survival. Like many small animals, Chihuahuas needed to protect themselves from predators in the wild. Burrowing offered them shelter, safety, and warmth. Even though they’re domesticated now, that instinct remains strong, which is why they still love burrowing today.
Chihuahuas are also closely related to terrier breeds, which were bred to dig and hunt small animals. Although your Chi no longer needs to hunt for food, they still have that natural drive to dig—except now, they burrow into blankets instead of dirt.
2. Burrowing to Stay Warm
Chihuahuas originated from Mexico, a region known for its warm climate. These dogs naturally have thin fur and very little body fat, which makes them more susceptible to cold temperatures, especially in colder climates.
To combat the chill, Chihuahuas instinctively burrow under blankets to stay warm. Their small size and low body fat make it harder for them to regulate their temperature, so wrapping themselves in a cozy blanket or nestling between your legs helps them conserve heat.
During colder months, you might notice your Chihuahua burrowing more frequently. Providing them with extra blankets or even a sweater can make a big difference in keeping them comfortable and warm.
3. Burrowing to Feel Safe
Just like their wild ancestors, Chihuahuas burrow to feel safe and secure. In the wild, burrowing offered protection from predators, and although Chihuahuas no longer face those dangers, they still seek out small, enclosed spaces to relax.
When a Chihuahua feels scared or anxious, burrowing provides them with a sense of security. Whether it’s hiding under a blanket or curling up in a bag, they feel protected and less vulnerable in tight spaces. This is why you often see them burrowing during stressful situations, like loud noises or the arrival of unfamiliar guests.
4. Burrowing to Hide Away
As the smallest dog breed, Chihuahuas often seek out small spaces to retreat to. These little dogs don’t need much space to feel comfortable, and a cozy burrow allows them to relax without being disturbed.
Whether it’s under the bed, in a drawer, or underneath a pile of blankets, Chihuahuas naturally gravitate toward small spaces where they can hide and rest. This behavior not only keeps them safe but also helps them feel calm and at ease.
If your Chihuahua has a favorite hiding spot, try creating a designated burrowing area for them with their own blanket or burrow bed. This will give them a safe space to retreat to whenever they need a little privacy.
5. Burrowing to Show Affection
Chihuahuas are known for their close attachment to their owners, often picking one person as their favorite. When your Chihuahua burrows next to you or under your blanket, it’s their way of showing affection. They see you as their pack leader and want to be close to you for warmth, comfort, and protection.
Even though Chihuahuas tend to bond closely with one person, they can be trained to accept other people as well. Positive reinforcement training, such as giving treats when they interact with others, can help your Chihuahua become more social and less dependent on one individual.
6. Burrowing Due to Pregnancy
Female Chihuahuas may start burrowing if they are pregnant, as part of their nesting instinct. Nesting is a natural behavior where pregnant dogs prepare a safe, warm spot to care for their puppies once they’re born. Burrowing into blankets or other soft materials helps them create a cozy nest for their soon-to-arrive litter.
If your female Chihuahua starts showing signs of pregnancy, such as increased burrowing, nesting, and protective behavior, it’s important to schedule a vet visit to ensure everything is going smoothly.
7. Burrowing Due to Pseudo-Pregnancy
Sometimes, female Chihuahuas may exhibit nesting behavior even if they’re not pregnant. This is known as a pseudo-pregnancy or false pregnancy, where the dog believes she is pregnant despite not carrying puppies.
During a pseudo-pregnancy, your Chihuahua might burrow more frequently and even start gathering toys or objects to "care for" as if they were her pups. Other signs include weight gain, mood changes, and enlarged mammary glands. If your Chihuahua is experiencing a false pregnancy, it’s important to consult your vet for advice on managing her symptoms.
8. Burrowing Out of Stress
Burrowing can also be a sign that your Chihuahua is stressed or anxious. Like many dogs, Chihuahuas use repetitive behaviors such as digging, chewing, and burrowing to cope with stress.
Loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals, and changes in their environment can trigger stress in Chihuahuas. If your Chi starts burrowing excessively or seems distressed, it may be a sign that something in their environment is causing anxiety.
To help your Chihuahua feel more relaxed, try to identify the source of their stress and make changes to their living environment. You can also provide them with calming toys or treats and give them plenty of love and attention to reassure them.
What to Do When Your Chihuahua Burrows
While burrowing is a natural and harmless behavior for Chihuahuas, there are ways to make it more comfortable for both you and your pup. Here are a few tips to ensure your Chihuahua stays happy and healthy while indulging in their burrowing habit:
- Provide Plenty of Blankets: Make sure your Chihuahua has access to soft, warm blankets to burrow into whenever they want. You can also invest in a burrow bed, which is specially designed to give dogs a cozy, enclosed space to sleep in.
- Keep Them Warm: Since Chihuahuas are prone to getting cold, especially in the winter, make sure they have warm clothing and bedding to keep them comfortable. A cozy sweater or blanket can help them stay warm and content.
- Create a Safe Space: If your Chihuahua is burrowing because they’re scared or anxious, try creating a designated safe space for them. This could be a crate or a small area of your home where they can retreat to when they need to feel secure.
- Monitor Their Health: If your Chihuahua is burrowing excessively or showing signs of distress, it’s important to monitor their health and behavior. Stress, pseudo-pregnancy, and other medical conditions can cause changes in behavior, so regular vet check-ups are essential.
- Respect Their Space: Sometimes, your Chihuahua just wants to be left alone to burrow in peace. Respect their need for privacy and allow them to retreat to their favorite burrowing spot when they need a break from the world.
Conclusion
Burrowing is a natural behavior for Chihuahuas, rooted in their instincts and history. Whether they’re seeking warmth, comfort, or safety, understanding why your Chihuahua burrows can help you provide them with the best care possible.
By respecting their needs and creating a comfortable environment, you can ensure your Chihuahua feels safe, loved, and happy—whether they’re snuggled up next to you or burrowed under a pile of blankets.
Burrowing may be just one of the many adorable traits that make Chihuahuas unique, but it’s a behavior that shows how deeply connected they are to their wild ancestors. Embrace your Chihuahua’s burrowing instincts and enjoy the bond that comes from caring for such a special breed.
