Have you ever noticed how freshly removed or just-laundered clothes are inexplicably attractive to dogs? They either lie directly on them or plop right down, resulting in clothes covered in dog hair and even drool! Actually, this seemingly cute but somewhat annoying behavior has its reasons. There are 5 major motivations behind why dogs do this, as well as 3 effective solutions. Let's take a look!
5 Reasons Why Dogs Love Lying on Your Clothes
Dogs often love to lie on clothes for a variety of reasons, blending comfort, security, and scent. Here are five major reasons why your furry friend might be drawn to your garments:
- "Your Scent" on the Clothes: For dogs, the owner's scent is a significant source of security. When you're not around, clothing that smells like you can make them feel as if you're nearby, providing a sense of reassurance and comfort.
- Alluring Scents on the Clothing: Sometimes, it's not just your scent, but other residual smells on the clothes that attract your dog. This could include traces of food, scents from other animals, or even outdoor aromas picked up while drying. If your dog is particularly fond of freshly laundered clothes, they might be attracted to the fragrance of the detergent or fabric softener.
- Clothes are Soft and Comfortable: A pile of soft clothing is like a ready-made, cozy dog bed. Clothes, especially those in a laundry basket, are often fluffy and easily shaped into a form they love, meeting all the criteria for an "ideal dog bed."
- Clothes Provide Warmth: Clothes fresh from the dryer retain body heat, and even after a while, they can offer a certain degree of warmth. If the clothes are placed near a heater or in sunlight, they are even more likely to attract dogs who are sensitive to the cold and looking for a warm spot to rest.
- Clothes are in the Dog's Territory: Dogs usually have their favorite resting spots. If you leave clothes in a place they frequent, such as the sofa, the foot of the bed, or a chair in the hallway, your dog will likely take the opportunity to lie right down on them!
How to Stop Your Dog from "Claiming" Your Clothes
Dogs love to be around their humans, and sometimes that love extends to your wardrobe. If you're finding your furry friend constantly lounging on your clothes, here are a few tips to redirect their behavior:
- Timely Storage and Organization: The easiest solution is to simply keep your clothes out of sight. Place worn clothes directly into the laundry basket, and immediately store clean clothes in the closet. This way, your dog won't even have the opportunity to lie on them.
- Increase Rest Options: If your dog consistently chooses your clothes over their bed, it may be because they find the clothes more comfortable. Try providing a softer sleeping mat or adding an old towel that carries your scent. This allows them to enjoy your aroma without soiling your clothes!
- Cultivate Correct Habits: When your dog behaves well and sleeps on their own bed, remember to reward them with treats or verbal praise. Conversely, when they go back to lying on your clothes, do not give them attention or a response, gradually changing this habit. If you are not at home, you can also consider crate training, put a blanket with your scent in the cage to meet the dog's needs for security, while developing its good habits.
By following these steps, you can help your dog develop better habits and keep your clothes fur-free!
Conclusion
In fact, dogs like to lie on your clothes, which essentially reflects their attachment to their owners. Although this habit can be a bit troublesome, as long as you understand the reason and provide the right guidance, it can still be gradually adjusted.
