Do you keep finding missing socks, toys or remote controls in your dog’s bed or buried in the garden?
Your dog is not being naughty. Taking and hiding objects is often a natural behaviour linked to instinct, curiosity or an unmet need.
Why Dogs Steal and Hide Objects
“A dog may take and hide an object if it is valuable to them and they feel the need to protect it,” explains qualified animal behaviourist Paige Grala, founder of Gentled Animals.
Hiding or grabbing objects comes from a natural instinct to store and protect resources.
Some dogs are more likely to display this behaviour due to their breeding and natural instincts.
“Dogs bred for hunting or digging, may be more likely to hide or bury items because they naturally engage in digging and caching behaviours.”
When the Behaviour Becomes a Concern
Stealing and hiding household objects is usually harmless.
“However, it becomes a concern if the dog appears distressed, shows signs of resource guarding, damages important items, or if it causes significant stress for the guardians,” cautions Paige.
The behaviour needs attention when it affects the wellbeing of your dog or causes ongoing stress in your household.
Identify Why Your Dog Takes Things
Start by asking why your dog finds the object valuable.
Paige explains: “Often, it relates to unmet needs, boredom, curiosity or the dog feeling the need to protect certain resources.”
Understanding the reason helps you prevent your dog from repeating the behaviour.
Teach a Reliable ‘Drop It’ Cue
Avoid chasing your dog or pulling the object from its mouth.
“A reliable ‘drop it’ cue is best taught using positive reinforcement,” says Paige.
Trade the stolen item for something of equal or higher value. Reward your dog when it releases the object.
Focus on Prevention Instead of Punishment
Shouting or yanking an item away often increases a dog’s stress and insecurity.
“This only increases the dog’s desire to guard or hide items in the future.”
Keep valuable or dangerous objects out of reach and give your dog suitable alternatives.
Provide More Enrichment
Paige recommends puzzle feeders, scent games, chew toys, training sessions and activities that allow dogs to express their natural behaviours.
These activities provide stimulation and give dogs suitable ways to use their energy and instincts.
Seek Support When Needed
Dogs do not steal objects to be spiteful or naughty.
“They are responding to what feels valuable or necessary to them,” explains Paige. “If the behaviour becomes difficult to manage, working with a qualified behaviourist can help.”
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