Dogs bury their treats because it is an instinctive behaviour rooted in their wild ancestry, where hiding food was a survival tactic. In the wild, canines like wolves or foxes often stored excess food to eat later, not knowing when they might find their next meal. Though domestic dogs no longer face this uncertainty, the instinct remains strong.
Where Does This Behaviour Come From?
This behavior has been passed down from their ancestors, who used caching as a way to survive lean times. Wolves and wild dogs often buried parts of a kill to keep it safe from scavengers and return later when food was scarce. Even though today’s dogs are well-fed and have regular meals, these ancient instincts still influence their behaviour.
Why Do Dogs Hide Treats They Don’t Need?
When dogs receive a particularly valued treat, something tastier or more aromatic than their regular food, they may feel the need to keep it safe. Burying it, whether in the backyard or under a blanket indoors, is their way of protecting a valuable resource.
Is This Behaviour More Common in Certain Breeds?
Yes, some breeds are more prone to burying than others. Dogs bred for hunting or retrieving, such as terriers, retrievers and dachshunds, often have stronger instincts to dig and hide items. These behaviours are closely tied to their original working purposes, like chasing burrowing animals or retrieving game, and those instincts show up even in modern household environments.
Can Anxiety Play a Role?
Yes, dogs sometimes bury treats due to stress, uncertainty or competition. In multi-dog households, or in environments where a dog feels insecure, hiding treats may serve as a protective measure.
It is their way of controlling a small part of their world. If this behaviour becomes obsessive or is accompanied by signs of distress, it may be worth discussing with a veterinarian or dog behaviourist.
Could It Just Be for Fun?
In many cases, yes. Dogs enjoy engaging in natural behaviors like digging, hiding and foraging. Burying a treat provides mental stimulation and a little problem-solving challenge. Some dogs seem to enjoy the game of hide-and-seek with their food, especially when they know they can come back to it later.
Should You Be Concerned?
Occasional treat burying is usually harmless. However, if a dog starts burying all its food, it may be a sign of overfeeding or anxiety.
Watch for patterns as if the dog never returns to the treat or buries it obsessively, it might be worth evaluating their environment, routine or stress levels. Providing enrichment activities and ensuring a balanced diet can help redirect the behavior if it becomes excessive.
How Can You Manage The Behaviour?
One practical step is to offer treats in moderation. Giving your dog high-value treats only occasionally can make them less likely to feel the need to stash them.
Choosing healthy dog treats can also reduce the risk of spoilage if your dog decides to bury one and retrieve it later. Engaging your dog with puzzle feeders or interactive toys can also satisfy their mental stimulation needs without encouraging hiding behaviours.
What Does Research Say?
According to the American Kennel Club, this behaviour is completely normal and varies by personality and breed. In a 2020 survey, nearly 40% of dog owners reported observing their pets hiding or burying treats or toys at some point. It is a widespread behaviour that reflects a combination of instinct, emotion and individual temperament.
Final Thoughts
Dogs bury their treats for many reasons including instinct, fun, anxiety or breed tendencies. While it might seem puzzling to us, it is a deeply ingrained behaviour that doesn’t usually signal a problem. Understanding why your dog does it can help you respond appropriately and ensure they stay both physically and mentally healthy.
