Dogs, known for their loyalty and affection, have a variety of behaviors that often intrigue their owners. One such behavior is the act of burying bones. While this might seem like an odd habit to some, it is deeply rooted in instinct and history. The practice of burying bones is not just a random quirk; it is a behavior that has evolved over centuries, rooted in survival instincts and the dog's natural drive. In this article, we will explore why dogs bury bones, the instincts behind this behavior and how it manifests in different dog breeds .
The Instinctive Nature of Bone Burying
Burying bones is primarily an instinctual behavior that stems from a dog’s wild ancestors. In the wild, dogs and their relatives, such as wolves, have to scavenge for food and often have to protect their food sources from other predators. When a wild dog or wolf found a carcass or a particularly good food source, it might have buried parts of it to hide it from scavengers or rival animals. This behavior helped ensure they had a food supply for later, especially in harsh environments where food was not always abundant.
As domesticated dogs, many of these instincts are still present, even though they are no longer living in the wild. Dogs, whether they are Leonbergers, Bully Kuttas or Shiloh Shepherds, still feel the drive to "save" food for later. In the case of bones, they are instinctively preparing for times when food may not be as readily available.
Bone Burying in Modern Dogs
While most domestic dogs are well-fed by their owners and do not need to store food for later, the behavior of burying bones remains prominent in many breeds. Dogs may bury bones, toys, or even food for a few different reasons, depending on their environment, breed and individual personality.
- Resource Guarding: One of the most common reasons dogs bury bones is related to resource guarding. Even though domestic dogs don’t face the same survival struggles as their wild ancestors, they still have a deep-seated instinct to protect what they perceive as valuable. Burying bones allows them to "hide" their food from other pets or even family members. Dogs such as the Leonberger and Bully Kutta, which are known for their protective nature, may bury bones more frequently as a way to safeguard their resources.
- Security and Comfort: Another reason dogs bury bones is for emotional security. For many dogs, burying an object like a bone offers comfort and a sense of control over their environment. This is particularly common in dogs with anxiety or those who feel insecure. Breeds like the Shiloh Shepherd, which are sometimes more anxious or nervous, may bury bones as a way to feel secure and keep something they consider valuable close by.
- Playful Behavior: Sometimes, dogs simply bury bones out of playfulness or boredom. For a dog, burying something can be a fun and engaging activity. Smaller breeds like the Bull Terrier and French Bulldog often bury their bones as a form of entertainment, especially if they are left alone for a while or have limited access to stimulating activities. This behavior can also be a way for dogs to "hide"their toys, creating a game of discovery when they later dig them up
- Nesting Instinct: Dogs also have an innate nesting instinct, which drives them to create a space where they can feel comfortable. In the wild, dogs would often dig to create a safe, cozy spot to sleep. Similarly, domestic dogs may bury bones as part of their nesting behavior, effectively creating a “storage” area for their food or prized possessions. Breeds like the Shiloh Shepherd or Leonberger, which are highly intelligent and active, might bury bones as part of a broader nesting or organizing instinct.
The Role of Different Breeds in Bone Burying Behavior
Not all dogs bury bones equally. Some breeds are more prone to this behavior than others and the reasons behind this can be attributed to their history, temperament and natural instincts. Let’s take a look at some dog breeds that are known for burying bones and how this behavior manifests.
- Leonberger: The Leonberger is a giant breed known for its calm demeanor and protective nature. This breed’s instinct to guard its resources is strong and it may bury bones to hide them from other animals, especially in a multi-pet household. While Leonbergers are generally calm and affectionate, their territorial instincts can lead them to bury bones as a way to claim food or toys as their own. They are excellent guardians, so burying bones could also be seen as a method to keep their prized possessions safe.
- Bully Kutta: Bully Kuttas are renowned for their strong protective nature, often exhibiting territorial behavior and a deep sense of loyalty to their possessions. This breed may bury bones as part of a natural instinct to safeguard resources. The Bully Kutta’s instinct to protect and mark territory can contribute to the act of burying bones, which helps them feel secure in their environment. In a home with other pets, this behavior may also be used to prevent others from taking their food
- Shiloh Shepherd: The Shiloh Shepherd is a large, intelligent breed known for its loyalty and strong instincts to protect its family. This breed is particularly known for being a little more sensitive and prone to anxiety compared to other breeds. Shiloh Shepherds may bury bones as a way to manage feelings of insecurity, creating a sense of comfort and control over their surroundings. Like other herding breeds, they have a natural instinct to protect their resources, which leads to behaviors like burying bones to prevent others from accessing them.
The Science Behind Bone Burying
Dogs have a keen sense of smell and a strong connection to their instincts. The act of burying bones might also be tied to scent-marking. When a dog buries a bone, it is leaving its scent on the object and marking it as its own. This is a deeply ingrained survival mechanism from their wild ancestors, ensuring that only the dog has access to the buried object. In the wild, this would prevent other scavengers or predators from taking the food. While domestic dogs don’t need to worry about this, the instinct remains.
Additionally, the act of digging and burying provides a dog with an outlet for excess energy. For dogs with high activity levels, such as the Leonberger or Shiloh Shepherd, digging to bury bones or toys can serve as a physical activity that helps them expend energy and stay mentally stimulated.
Conclusion
Burying bones is a fascinating and complex behavior that combines instinct, emotional security and even play. Whether it's for resource guarding, comfort, or boredom, the act of burying bones is rooted in a dog's deep-seated survival instincts and needs. Different dog breeds such as Leonbergers, Bully Kuttas and Shiloh Shepherds may display this behavior in varying degrees, but it’s clear that burying bones is a natural part of being a dog. Understanding these behaviors not only helps us appreciate our pets’ instincts but also enriches our bond with them by acknowledging their natural tendencies.
So, the next time you see your dog digging a little hole to bury a bone, remember: it's not just a quirky habit; it’s part of who they are.