Have you spent hours researching and purchasing the perfect dog bed, only to find your furry friend curled up on the couch again? You’re not alone. Many New Zealand dog owners face this puzzling issue. Fortunately, your dog isn't trying to be defiant—they're likely just acting on instinct and comfort.
In this blog, we explore the reasons behind couch-sleeping behaviour in dogs and offer practical solutions to help your pup love their bed as much as you hoped they would.
Common Reasons Dogs Prefer the Couch
1. Elevated Position for Security
Dogs naturally enjoy elevated spaces because it gives them a better view of their environment and a sense of safety. Couches provide that height.
2. Human Scent & Social Bonding
Your scent lingers on the couch cushions, offering your dog a sense of closeness and security. It's a way of bonding when you're not around.
3. Temperature & Texture
The couch is often warmer or more padded than a standard dog bed. In winter, especially in NZ's cooler southern regions, warmth becomes essential.
4. Habit Formed in Puppyhood
If you allowed couch-sleeping when they were younger, it may have simply become their norm.
5. Poor Bed Placement
Sometimes, dog beds are placed in loud or drafty corners that dogs naturally avoid. They’ll pick the more comfortable option: your couch.
How to Encourage Your Dog to Use Their Bed
1. Choose the Right Bed
Your dog might not like their current bed due to lack of support or uncomfortable fabric. Consider switching to a high-quality option like the Brooklyn Nest Dog Bed, which combines plush walls with a breathable base.
2. Make It Smell Familiar
Rub an item of your clothing on the bed or place a blanket your dog loves on it. This helps associate their bed with comfort and security.
3. Correct Placement
Avoid drafty areas or noisy zones. Try placing the bed near where the family gathers, such as the living room corner.
4. Reward-Based Training
Encourage bed use with treats and praise. Whenever your dog goes to their bed voluntarily, reward the behaviour.
5. Block Couch Access
Temporarily block the couch when you're not home. This resets your dog’s sleeping patterns.
Recommended Beds That Rival the Couch
Brooklyn Luxe Lounger 2-in-1 Dog Bed
It mimics the couch with its structure, offering elevated edges and plush padding while being more pet-friendly.
Brooklyn Orthopaedic Calming Pet Bed
Perfect for anxious dogs, this bed has raised rims and faux fur that feels like a security blanket.
Brooklyn Deep Sleep Cat Bed (For Smaller Breeds)
Don’t let the name fool you—this bed suits small dogs too. It has a cosy nest-like feel that some dogs prefer over flat mattresses.
Creating a "Dog Couch Corner"
- Use rugs or low platforms to elevate the bed slightly
- Surround it with toys or comforting items
- Place it where your dog naturally naps
Consistency Is Key
Training your dog to prefer their bed over the couch won't happen overnight. Stick with positive reinforcement and avoid yelling or punishment.
Why This Matters for Long-Term Behaviour
Allowing your dog to claim the couch could lead to territory issues or difficulty adjusting in other people's homes. Teaching proper boundaries also protects your furniture.
Our team is happy to assist you in choosing a bed your pup will love. Contact us and we’ll guide you to the perfect match.
Discover the best travel dog beds for road trips, camping, and on-the-go comfort in New Zealand. Lightweight, durable, and calming pet beds for any adventure.
