Why Do Dogs Bury Their Treats?

If you’ve ever given your dog a tasty treat only to see them scamper away and bury it somewhere—perhaps under a pillow, in the backyard, or even in the laundry basket—you’re witnessing a behaviour known as ‘caching.’ While it might seem odd for a well-fed pet to hide food they don’t need, this behaviour is rooted deep in canine history.

Dogs descend from wolves, and for wolves in the wild, caching was essential for survival. In environments where food wasn’t always available, burying leftover food allowed wolves to store it for later, ensuring they had a backup supply during times when hunting was scarce. By hiding the food in dirt or leaves, they could protect it from the sun and air, preserving it better for when it was needed.

Our dogs may not have to fend for themselves or worry about their next meal, but the instinct to cache remains strong. Dogs will often bury treats when they’re not immediately hungry, but the smell of the treat is still enticing. Some experts believe it’s also a way for dogs to ‘save’ the treat for when they’re in a relaxed and safe state so they can enjoy it without interruption. For dogs in households with multiple pets, caching may also serve a protective purpose. Hiding food allows them to ‘mark’ it as their own, reducing the chance that another animal will find and eat it.

Interestingly, the act of burying food is usually harmless. But if a dog is obsessively burying food or toys, it might indicate anxiety or stress. Some dogs might hide things excessively if they feel insecure or if changes in their routine are making them uneasy. Over-caching can also be a sign of boredom, as it offers a way for a dog to entertain itself. Providing regular exercise, mental stimulation, and attention can help reduce these behaviours if they become excessive.

On a lighter note, some dogs simply find caching fun, as it allows them to engage in a playful and instinctual activity. You may see your dog ‘bury’ a bone under a cushion without any intention of returning to it—they just enjoy the process! This behaviour serves as a reminder that even in our modern homes, our pets retain pieces of their wild heritage. So, next time you find a hidden stash, you’ll know it’s just your dog tapping into an ancient survival skill.