Why does my dog scratch the sofa? Instinct, frustration or anxiety

The sound of claws scraping against fabric or leather is something many dog owners recognise instantly. You walk into the living room and find your dog digging into the sofa cushions or scratching the seat before settling down. While this behaviour is completely natural for dogs, it can quickly become frustrating when it starts damaging furniture.

Understanding why a dog scratches the sofa is the first step towards protecting your home without working against your dog’s natural instincts. In most cases, this behaviour is not disobedience or spite, but a combination of instinctive habits, physical needs and emotional responses.

Scratching is not bad behaviour

Scratching surfaces is deeply rooted in canine behaviour. Dogs have been doing it for thousands of years, long before sofas existed. Rather than trying to stop the behaviour entirely, it is more effective to understand what motivates it and adapt the environment accordingly.

In large dogs especially, scratching can be more noticeable due to their weight, strength and longer claws. What looks like minor digging for a small dog can quickly leave visible marks when a large dog is involved. If your dog’s nails are long or rough, keeping them maintained can reduce accidental damage on soft furnishings. Some owners use a nail grinder for large dogs to smooth edges between trims.

Territory marking: “this is my spot”

Sofas are often the most attractive resting place in the home. They are soft, elevated and carry the scent of the household. When a dog scratches the sofa, they may be attempting to mix their own scent with yours.

Dogs have scent glands located between their paw pads. Scratching allows them to release pheromones that mark an area as familiar and safe. This behaviour is particularly common in shared family spaces where dogs want to feel included.

For large dogs that spend time resting in the living room, providing a designated resting area nearby can help reduce repeated scratching of the sofa. A supportive option like large dog beds can give your dog a clear “yes space” close to family life. If you want a cosy, settled feel, a bed such as Comforting dog bed for large dogs can work well in the living room.

Frustration linked to access and comfort

Sometimes scratching does not target the cushions themselves but the front or sides of the sofa. This can be a sign of frustration rather than nesting behaviour.

Large dogs may struggle with slippery floors, awkward angles or discomfort when jumping up and down. Scratching can become a way to express frustration when access feels difficult or unstable.

Improving footing around furniture and ensuring your dog has a comfortable resting option at floor level often reduces this type of scratching. If your dog is still learning calm indoor movement, steady daily walks using dog leads for large dogs can support more settled behaviour at home.

Nesting behaviour and the need to settle

Scratching before lying down is a natural nesting ritual. In the wild, dogs would scratch the ground to flatten grass, remove debris and create a comfortable sleeping spot.

Indoors, this instinct does not disappear. Sofas, rugs and beds often become the target. When scratching becomes excessive, it may indicate that the dog is struggling to fully relax or find a position that feels comfortable.

Large dogs, due to their size, often need more space to stretch out properly. When they cannot do this comfortably, they may scratch repeatedly in an attempt to adjust the surface. Choosing a bed shape that matches how your dog rests can make a difference, for example Rectangular dog bed for large dogs for dogs that like to lie flat and stretch out.

Anxiety and excess energy

Scratching can also be a way for dogs to release stress. If your dog scratches the sofa more intensely when left alone or during periods of change, anxiety may be a contributing factor.

In the UK, separation-related stress is a common issue, particularly in dogs that are closely bonded to their owners. Scratching becomes a repetitive action that helps the dog cope with emotional tension.

Ensuring your dog receives enough physical exercise, mental stimulation and predictable routines can significantly reduce stress-related behaviours. Calm enrichment can also help some dogs settle before rest time, such as a lick mat for dogs used during quiet moments. A simple option like Lick Mat for Large Dogs can support calmer downtime for dogs that struggle to switch off.

Redirecting the behaviour instead of punishing it

Punishment rarely solves scratching behaviour and can increase anxiety. A more effective approach is redirection.

Providing a comfortable, clearly defined resting space allows your dog to express natural behaviours without targeting the sofa. Many large dogs respond well when given a supportive resting area that offers enough room to stretch, lean and relax fully.

Positioning this space near family activity helps satisfy the dog’s desire to stay close while protecting shared furniture. For dogs that enjoy “sniff and settle” routines, a short calm activity can help them relax before they lie down, such as a snuffle mat for dogs (used for gentle indoor enrichment rather than high-energy play).

What to avoid

Strong-smelling repellents or harsh deterrents can make shared living spaces stressful for dogs. These methods often fail to address the underlying cause and may increase nervous behaviour, especially in sensitive or anxious dogs.

Focusing on comfort, routine and clear alternatives is usually far more effective.

Finding a balance at home

Sofa scratching is rarely about destruction. It is more often a signal that a dog is trying to feel secure, comfortable or involved in daily life.

By understanding the motivation behind the behaviour and making small adjustments to your home setup, it is possible to protect furniture while supporting your dog’s natural needs.

This balanced approach helps maintain both a calm household and a positive relationship with your dog.