9 Reasons Why Dogs Scratch Carpets And Walls

This post will address some common reasons why dogs scratch carpets and walls of your home while you are away or even if you are at home.

As a pet parent, you understand that your furry friend is a part of the family.

You love them unconditionally and would do anything to make them happy.

So, when they start scratching the carpets or walls, it’s natural to want to find out why and how to stop it.

There are a few reasons why your dog may be scratching carpets or walls. It could be that they’re bored, stressed, have allergies, or are experiencing joint pain.

Keep reading to learn more about why dogs scratch carpets and walls and what you can do to help them.

Reasons Why Dogs Scratch Carpets And Walls

Here are some common reasons why dogs scratch carpets and walls:

1. They’re Bored

If your dog is scratching carpets or walls, it could be because they’re bored.

Boredom is one of the most common reasons why dogs engage in destructive behaviors.

Dogs are natural explorers and need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

If your dog is bored, try adding some new toys to their toy box or taking them on more walks and play dates.

You can also enroll them in a dog sport or training class to give them something to look forward to.

2. They’re Stressed

Just like humans, dogs can experience stress.

And when they’re stressed, they may start to engage in destructive behaviors like scratching carpets or walls.

There are a number of things that can cause stress in dogs, including loud noises, changes in their routine, and being left alone for long periods of time.

If you think your dog is stressed, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you identify the cause of your dog’s stress and recommend ways to help them feel better.

3. They Have Allergies

Allergies are another common reason why dogs scratch carpets or walls.

Dogs can be allergic to a number of things, including pollen, dust mites, and certain foods.

If your dog is allergic to something in its environment, it may start scratching to relieve the itchiness.

If you think your dog may have allergies, talk to your veterinarian.

They can run some tests to determine what your dog is allergic to and recommend the best course of treatment.

4. They’re Experiencing Joint Pain

As dog’s age, they may start to experience joint pain.

This pain can make it uncomfortable for them to lie down or walk, which can lead to them scratching carpets or walls.

If you think your dog may be experiencing joint pain, talk to your veterinarian.

They can recommend ways to help your dog feel more comfortable, including joint supplements and pain medication.

5. They’re Teething

Puppies go through a teething phase just like human babies.

During this time, their gums are sore, and they may start chewing on things to help relieve the discomfort.

Unfortunately, this can lead to them scratching carpets or walls.

If your puppy is teething, give them chew toys to help relieve the discomfort.

You can also rub their gums with a wet washcloth to help soothe them.

6. They’re Anxious

Anxiety is another common reason why dogs scratch carpets or walls.

Dogs can be anxious about a number of things, including changes in their environment, being left alone, and loud noises.

If your dog is anxious, it may start to engage in destructive behaviors like chewing or scratching.

If you think your dog may be anxious, talk to your veterinarian.

They can help you identify the cause of your dog’s anxiety and recommend ways to help them feel better.

7. They Have Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a type of anxiety that occurs when a dog is separated from their owner.

If your dog has separation anxiety, it may start to engage in destructive behaviors like chewing or scratching when you leave them alone.

If you think your dog may have separation anxiety, talk to your veterinarian.

They can help you identify the cause of your dog’s anxiety and recommend ways to help them feel better.

8. They’re Excited

Dogs may also start to scratch carpets or walls when they’re excited.

This is often seen when dogs are greeting their owners or playing with their favorite toys.

While it may seem like they’re being destructive, they’re actually just expressing their excitement.

If your dog is scratching carpets or walls when they’re excited, try to redirect their energy with a toy or a game of fetch.

You can also give them some good treats to help calm them down.

9. They’re Trying to Get Your Attention

Dogs may also start to scratch carpets or walls when they’re trying to get your attention.

This is often seen when dogs are left alone for long periods of time or when they’re bored.

If your dog is scratching carpets or walls to get your attention, try to give them more attention when you’re home.

This may include playing with them, taking them for walks, or giving them treats.

How to stop a dog from scratching walls

One of the most common complaints from homeowners is that their dog scratches the walls.

Unfortunately, this behavior is often caused by a lack of training and reinforcement.

To stop your dog from scratching the walls, start by using positive reinforcement.

When you see your dog scratching the wall, give him a treat or a pat on the back.

This will help to create a positive association between scratching the wall and positive reinforcement.

If your dog continues to scratch the walls, you may need to train him to stop.

Start by using a leash and a “no” command. When your dog starts to scratch the wall, say “no” and pull him away.

1. 1. Keep your dog well-fed and exercised.
2. Use positive reinforcement training.
3. Train your dog to stop scratching.
4. Use a “scratch pad” to redirect your dog’s scratching behavior.
5. Consult a veterinarian about medication that may be effective in stopping your dog from scratching.
6. Use barriers, such as baby gates, to keep your dog from scratching walls.
7. Use a scratching post to help redirect your dog’s scratching behavior.
8. Make scratching spots unattractive.
9. Use a bitter spray on the scratching surface.
10. Keep your dog’s nails short.
11. Provide lots of mental stimulation activities and exercise.