Dogs pant for many reasons, and when it’s paired with digging at their bed, it can be puzzling or even concerning for owners.
While sometimes the cause is harmless, these behaviors can also point to discomfort or underlying health issues.
We outline the common reasons for a dog panting and digging its bed, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Panting and Digging Bed — Why It Happens
Dog panting with bed digging behavior can be triggered by both physical and emotional factors. Dogs may dig their beds due to nesting instincts, stress, or an attempt to get comfortable if they’re feeling unwell. Panting may occur because of heat, anxiety, pain, or a medical problem that needs attention.
In some cases, the two behaviors are connected—for example, a dog in pain might dig as a restless response and pant because of discomfort.
Other times, they happen together coincidentally but still signal that something needs your attention.
Dog Panting and Digging Bed: Common Causes
Anxiety and Stress
Dogs may pant and dig their bed when they feel anxious, restless, or uneasy. Separation anxiety, loud noises, or changes in the household can cause this.
Digging serves as a self-soothing action, while panting reflects heightened stress levels.
You might also notice pacing, whining, or hiding. Stress-related panting often occurs even when the temperature is comfortable.
If anxiety is ongoing, it can lead to destructive behaviors or reduced quality of life, so addressing the cause is important.
Read more: Dog Panting Before Bed (Here’s why)
Overheating
Overheating is a straightforward reason for panting, and dogs may dig their bed to find a cooler or more comfortable spot.
This can happen after exercise, during hot weather, or if the room temperature is too high.
Signs include excessive panting, drooling, and seeking cool areas. Heat stress can escalate to heatstroke, which is life-threatening, so prompt action is needed.
Pain or Discomfort
Dogs sometimes dig and pant because they’re uncomfortable, whether from joint pain, abdominal discomfort, or another issue.
The digging is a restless attempt to find a position that eases the pain, while panting is a common response to physical distress.
You may also see reduced activity, reluctance to jump or climb, and changes in appetite. Persistent discomfort requires veterinary evaluation.
Nesting Instinct
Some dogs, especially females, dig at their bed due to natural nesting behavior. This can occur before whelping in pregnant dogs or during phantom pregnancies. Panting may accompany this due to hormonal changes or mild anxiety.
Even in non-pregnant dogs, nesting behavior can be strong, and the combination with panting might still indicate hormonal or reproductive system changes.
Gastrointestinal Distress
Upset stomach, bloating, or other digestive issues can make a dog restless. They may dig their bed as part of discomfort-driven activity and pant from nausea or abdominal pain.
If bloating is severe and accompanied by rapid breathing or retching, this can indicate gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a medical emergency.
Heart or Respiratory Issues
Problems like heart disease or respiratory illness can make breathing more difficult, leading to panting. Restlessness from lack of oxygen or discomfort can cause bed-digging as well.
You may also notice coughing, lethargy, or reduced exercise tolerance. These conditions require timely diagnosis and treatment.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and Their Digging Bed
First, make sure your dog is in a comfortable, cool environment. Offer fresh water and ensure they have a soft, supportive bed.
If you suspect anxiety, try calming techniques such as gentle interaction, a quiet space, or pheromone diffusers. Reducing triggers can help ease both panting and digging.
Observe their behavior closely. If symptoms follow exercise or heat exposure, rest in a cooler area is important. For ongoing issues, monitor for additional signs like limping, vomiting, or coughing.
Avoid punishing the digging—instead, address the underlying cause. Sometimes this means a vet visit to check for pain, hormonal changes, or organ-related issues.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary help right away if your dog’s panting is excessive, labored, or accompanied by weakness, collapse, or bloating.
If the digging and panting are persistent, worsen over time, or occur with signs like coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced appetite, a vet check is essential.
For pregnant dogs or those suspected of phantom pregnancies, veterinary guidance ensures comfort and safety.
In any case where you’re unsure, it’s safer to have a professional rule out serious conditions.
Read more: Dog panting excessively (Here’s why)
Key Takeaway
Panting and digging the bed can be normal in some contexts, but when they occur together frequently or with other symptoms, it’s important to investigate the cause.
By observing your dog closely, providing a comfortable environment, and seeking timely veterinary care when needed, you can address both behavioral and medical triggers.
Your attentiveness not only ensures their comfort but also helps protect them from potentially serious health issues.