8 Reasons Why your Dog is Suddenly Sleeping on the Floor

Last Updated: March 21, 2023

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Imagine spending hours trying to find the perfect dog bed for your canine companion. You go above and beyond when it comes to features! Maybe you spring for memory foam, cozy bolsters, and premium fabrics.

When you take it home, you're super excited to give your dog all of the spoiled luxuries they deserve. But after a few minutes of trying it out,

Your furry friend decides to sleep on the floor instead.

dog sleeping on the floor

Does that situation sound familiar?

It's undoubtedly a frustrating experience. Despite your best efforts to provide the most comfortable bed possible, your dog may suddenly turn to the floor to get some shuteye. But why?

It turns out that there are many potential reasons. Here are some of the most common and possible solutions you can use to encourage your dog to use a bed.

8 Reasons Why Your Dog Prefers Sleeping on the Floor

1. Uncomfortable Temperatures

Dogs need to be perfectly comfortable to get some sleep. Even some minor temperature issues can prevent them from getting a good night of rest.

Your pup can't get up to change the thermostat. So, they have to rely on positioning and surroundings to get the level of comfort they need.

A bed that's too hot or too cold is unappealing to pups.

In the summer, you might notice your dog resorting to cold kitchen floors. There's a good chance that the overstuffed plush bed is way too warm. So, your pup goes to the cold tile instead!

The same could happen during the winter. Your dog might prefer to sleep next to the heater vent or radiator instead of next to the cold window!

Think about how you position the bed, its materials, and any accessories. Sometimes, switching up the location is enough to make it more comfortable as far as temperature is concerned.

Alternatively, you can add a blanket or opt for well-ventilated materials.

It can take some trial and error. But once you get things right, your dog should have no problem getting off the floor and using their bed again.

2. Improper Bed Sizing

Size is an essential factor when choosing a bed. If you ignore it, don't be surprised if your dog looks elsewhere to lay its head.

Incorrect dog bed size

For bigger dogs, beds that are too small can cause issues. Even if your dog's capable of sleeping on it curled into a ball, it might be problematic for stretching out.

Your pooch needs to spread its legs and have enough room to change positions. If they can't do that in the bed, they have an open floor to utilize!

You would think that smaller dogs are easier to please in this regard. However, that couldn't be farther from the truth.

Tiny dogs often feel overwhelmed and scared when they have too much space. They'll feel exposed to potential threats. Plus, a more giant bed makes it harder to get warm.

Whether your dog's big or small, always take measurements before buying a bed.

Measure their length from top to bottom as they lay sprawled out on the floor. Use that as a guide to choose the right size. Most manufacturers offer a few models. Select the one that's closest to your dog's measurements, and you should be good to go.

3. They Prefer a Different Spot

Sometimes, the solution revolves around location.

Is your dog's bed in a different room on the other side of the house?

Did you put it downstairs as you sleep on the second floor?

Whatever the case may be, it's not uncommon for dogs to take issues with being far away from you. Dogs like to sleep near their owners. It makes them feel comfortable and close to you.

Instead of using that fancy bed you bought, most would rather sleep on the floor next to your bed.

Try moving the bed closer to your own sleeping spot. Once again, it may take trial and error here. Some canines prefer to be right next to you. Others like the den-like feeling of being under your bed. Experiment a bit and let your dog find its sweet spot.

4. Unwanted Sounds

Here's something that most people don't even consider.

Many beds can create unwanted noise that drives your dog mad! If you've ever tossed and turned on a squeaky bed frame, you can probably feel your dog's frustration.

Not every bed is made of thick, high-quality materials. Some have fabrics that crinkle, liners that sound like they're constantly scratching on something, and piping that creaks.

Some beds even have frames that squeak as bad as human metal beds!

Dog hears something

You have to remember that your dog's hearing is far more sensitive than yours.

The noise you hear coming from the bed might not be a huge deal. But to your dog, it can be something that keeps them up at night.

The only course of action here is to invest in a quieter bed. Look for a simpler model without all the unnecessary extras. It might be the peaceful haven your dog needs.

5. The Bed Isn't as comfortable as it Seems

Pure discomfort could be the issue with floor sleeping. Despite all of the plush extras, you never know what your dog will honestly think about their bed.

Dogs have their personal preferences like humans.

What you might find cozy may be irritating for Fido!

For example, some dogs show an aversion to memory foam. For most people, it feels like sleeping on a cloud. However, dogs can find it challenging to use.

Pay attention to how your dog interacts with their bed. If they have trouble getting up to move positions, the bed is likely causing some discomfort.

Your pup may even cry out in pain or groan. After so many nights, most dogs will move to the floor.

6. Pain and Irritation

Seeing your dog sleep on the floor isn't an automatic cause for concern. But if it comes out of nowhere, it may be a sign of something more nefarious.

Now, sleeping on a hard floor might sound counterproductive. But it's impossible to know what's going on in your dog's head. In some cases, sleeping on cold tiles can relieve pain.

It's not uncommon to see dogs using tiles as a way to soothe joint or muscle pain.

dog laying on the floor in pain

Others might avoid using a bed because of a broken spring or out-of-place piping that's constantly jabbing them in the side.

Whatever the case may be, matters of pain aren't something you should ignore.

Give the bed a good look-over and consider bringing your dog to a vet. If there is some hidden health issue at play, your vet can help diagnose the problem and provide proper care.

7. Height and the Struggle of Aging Joints

Senior dogs have many unique needs that younger pups don't have to consider. Rambunctious youngsters can leap on the couch without missing a beat.

But at some point, your dog is going to have trouble even climbing a few inches to get into bed. Modern dog furniture is well-built and uses thick foam several inches deep.

Sure, that layer of cushioning is excellent for relieving joints. However, getting into it prevents your dog from ever reaping the benefits.

Once again, a trip to the vet is always a good idea. If your dog is suffering from joint pain, there's a lot you can do to provide relief. Beyond medication and joint supplements, you can modify the sleeping situation.

Consider investing in a more senior-friendly model. Ramps and other accessories are also available to make things much more manageable.

8. It's What They're Used To

Finally, your dog might choose to sleep on the floor simply because it's what they're used to doing. You're more likely to see this from adopted dogs or those who didn't come from a good home.

Your dog might start out using a beg. But those old habits can come back the moment they feel uneasy or scared. Even dogs that have spent several months sleeping on beds can resort back to their old way.

Canines are creatures of comfort, and they prefer to stick to what they know. Breaking the habit isn't impossible, but it will take some time.

Think about working with a trainer or behavioralist. They can help you develop a routine that breaks through those issues.

Conclusion

Dogs aren't super concerned with fancy furniture and over-the-top beds. They like to be comfortable, and many will look beyond the bed to get as cozy as possible.

Try the tips we went over to see if you can coax your pup into using the bed you bought. But if they still prefer to sleep on the floor, don't fight it.

Provide all the accessories they need to get comfortable. As long as they get enough shuteye, there's nothing wrong with enjoying the floor!

Also read:

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About the author 

Steve

Steve is a writer with over 10 years of experience in dog training and nutritiion.

His goal is to educate dog owners about the ins and outs of canine behavior as well as keeping up with the latest scientific research in the field.