Do you ever peek at your pup snuggled under the covers and wonder, “How on earth are they breathing under there?” I’ve asked myself this question countless times when my dog disappears beneath the blankets for hours. Let’s dig into this cozy mystery and uncover the truth about dogs and their blanket burrowing habits!
The Short Answer: Yes, They Can!
Good news! In most cases, dogs can absolutely breathe under blankets Most fabrics allow enough airflow for your pup to get the oxygen they need According to veterinary experts, dogs are perfectly capable of breathing under blankets as long as the material isn’t too thick or heavy.
Why Do Dogs Love Sleeping Under Blankets Anyway?
Before we get deeper into the breathing situation let’s understand why our furry friends are such blanket enthusiasts
It’s in Their DNA
- Ancestral Denning Behavior: Dogs descended from wolves who created dens for shelter. Burrowing under blankets mimics this natural instinct.
- Pack Animal Instincts: As pack animals, dogs naturally want to sleep close to their “pack” (that’s you!) for safety and belonging.
- Breed Tendencies: Some breeds like Terriers, Dachshunds, Siberian Huskies, and Alaskan Malamutes have stronger burrowing instincts due to their hunting or weather-adapting history.
Comfort and Security
Dogs seek out blankets because they provide:
- A sense of security (like a cozy den)
- Warmth and comfort
- Your familiar scent (which they love!)
- A territory they can mark with their own scent
Some dogs only dive under covers when they’re anxious or stressed, while others make it their nightly routine. Either way, it’s totally normal behavior!
The Science Behind How Dogs Breathe Under Blankets
Now to the main question – how exactly do they breathe under there?
Airflow Through Fabric
Most blanket materials (cotton, fleece, synthetics) aren’t airtight. They have tiny spaces between fibers that allow air to flow through. This means your dog can still get oxygen even when completely covered.
As a veterinarian explained in one of our sources, “Dogs are perfectly capable of breathing under blankets, as long as the blanket is not too thick or heavy.”
Dogs’ Natural Temperature Regulation
Dogs have built-in mechanisms to regulate their body temperature:
- Panting to cool down
- Fur for insulation
However, it’s worth noting that dogs naturally run hotter than humans. Their normal body temperature is around 101-102.5°F (compared to our 98.6°F). This means they might get uncomfortably warm under blankets faster than we would.
Safety Concerns: When to Worry
While blanket burrowing is usually safe, there are some situations that deserve caution:
Signs Your Dog Might Be Struggling
Watch for these warning signs that your dog might be having trouble breathing under the blanket:
- Excessive panting
- Restlessness
- Trying to escape from under the blanket
- Drooling more than usual
- Lethargy
- Bright red gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately remove the blanket and provide a cooler, well-ventilated area.
High-Risk Scenarios
Extra caution is needed in these situations:
- Hot Weather: Dogs can overheat quickly, especially under blankets in warm conditions
- Brachycephalic Breeds: Flat-faced dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers already have breathing challenges
- Very Young Puppies: They may not have the strength to free themselves
- Elderly Dogs: May have mobility issues that prevent them from adjusting their position
- Heavy or Weighted Blankets: These can restrict movement and airflow
Choosing Safe Blankets for Your Dog
Not all blankets are created equal when it comes to dog safety!
Best Blanket Materials
Opt for these dog-friendly fabrics:
- 100% cotton (breathable and natural)
- Hemp (breathable and hypoallergenic)
- Lightweight fleece (warm but still allows airflow)
Blanket Features to Avoid
Stay away from:
- Electric blankets (risk of burns or electrocution)
- Weighted blankets (too heavy for dogs to move)
- Blankets with loose threads, tassels, or fringes (choking hazards)
- Synthetic materials that might trigger allergies
Size and Weight Considerations
The ideal blanket should be:
- Lightweight enough for your dog to move underneath
- Appropriately sized for your dog (not too small or overwhelmingly large)
- Not tucked in tightly around your dog
Special Considerations for Different Dogs
Different types of dogs have different blanket needs:
| Dog Type | Blanket Safety Considerations |
|---|---|
| Small Puppies | Lack strength to free themselves from heavy covers |
| Toy Breeds | Similar risks as puppies due to small size |
| Elderly Dogs | May struggle to move away from blankets if needed |
| Brachycephalic Breeds | Higher risk of overheating; require extra vigilance |
| Dogs with Mobility Issues | May need help getting in/out of blankets |
Alternative Sleeping Solutions
If you’re concerned about your dog sleeping under blankets, consider these alternatives:
Specialized Dog Beds
These can provide comfort without the risks:
- Orthopedic beds (great for spine alignment)
- Self-warming pads (use your dog’s body heat to reflect warmth)
- Cave-style beds (satisfy the burrowing instinct safely)
Comfort Accessories
Other options include:
- Special pet blankets designed for breathing
- Dog huts or tents
- Heated beds with pet-safe heating elements
I recently got my dog a premium dog bed with breathable materials, and she absolutely loves it! It gives her the cozy feeling she craves without me worrying about her breathing.
Common Questions Dog Owners Ask
Q: Can dogs suffocate under blankets?
A: While technically possible with very heavy blankets, most dogs can adjust themselves to breathe properly.
Q: How can I tell if my dog is too hot under a blanket?
A: Watch for excessive panting, drooling, restlessness, or bright red gums.
Q: Is it safe for my dog to sleep under covers with me?
A: Yes, as long as the blanket is breathable and your dog can move freely.
Q: Should I be worried about my dog burrowing under blankets?
A: Generally no – it’s natural behavior for many dogs. Just ensure they have breathable fabrics and can escape easily.
Q: Why does my dog pant under the blanket?
A: Some panting is normal – it’s how dogs regulate temperature. Excessive panting might mean they’re too warm.
Q: My dog sleeps under blankets even in summer – is this normal?
A: Yes! Some dogs seek the security of blankets regardless of temperature. Just make sure they stay hydrated and don’t overheat.
My Personal Experience
My Lab mix, Cooper, is a dedicated blanket burrower. At first, I was constantly checking to make sure he could breathe, but I’ve learned that he’s perfectly capable of adjusting himself when needed. He’ll occasionally poke his nose out for fresh air or completely emerge if he gets too warm.
I’ve found that lightweight cotton blankets work best – they provide the coziness he craves without trapping too much heat. Plus, they’re easy to wash (essential when you’re dealing with a dog who sheds like it’s his job!).
Conclusion: Let Them Burrow (Safely)!
So, can dogs breathe under blankets? The answer is a resounding yes – in most cases, your pup is perfectly safe enjoying their cozy blanket fort. Just remember:
- Choose breathable, lightweight blankets
- Monitor for signs of overheating
- Take extra precautions with at-risk dogs (puppies, elderly, flat-faced breeds)
- Consider a high-quality dog bed as an alternative
The next time you see your furry friend disappear under the covers, you can rest easy knowing they’re probably just enjoying their natural denning instincts in the comfort of your home. After all, there’s nothing quite as heartwarming as a snuggled-up pup living their best blanket life!
The reasons why your dog sleeps under the covers and why high-quality dog beds are important Some dog owners do not allow their pets to climb onto the sofa and sleep in bed with them, while others do not impose such restrictions. Regardless of what rules you have set for your dog’s behavior in your home, we have to admit that there is nothing sweeter than when a dog curls up next to us and dreams sweet dreams! However, those who allow a dog to be in bed with them during the night have certainly witnessed on several occasions that, as nice as it is, this is often not practical for several reasons. It is interesting that we can learn a lot about dogs through their sleeping habits. Also, there is a reason why a dog needs to have its own high-quality dog bed and we are here to tell you all about it. Of course, dogs should have their own bed, but if you share your bed with your pet, a luxury dog bed will probably become its ‘day bed’. Most people consider their four-legged friends to be a part of the family. So, it’s not uncommon for pet owners to let their dogs sleep in bed with them. But not only that dogs take a lot of space in the bed, but they also sometimes like to sleep under the covers.
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