Before settling down to sleep, many dogs perform a few turns around themselves, sometimes accompanied by scratching the ground. This ritual, which may seem trivial or amusing, actually has very ancient origins linked to instinct and the species' wild heritage.
Among the ancestors of domestic dogs, who lived in the wild, turning in circles primarily served to flatten vegetation or create a more comfortable resting space. This movement could also help detect potential dangers hidden in tall grass or the ground, such as snakes or insects.
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This behavior also responded to a need for thermoregulation. By turning, the animal could adjust its position relative to wind, sun, or shade to retain body heat or stay cool. In cold climates, lightly digging the ground and curling up helped retain warmth better.
Another important aspect of this ritual is related to safety. Turning around gave the dog a better view and sense of smell of its surroundings before settling into a vulnerable sleeping position. Even though modern domestic dogs live in safe environments, this instinct remains deeply ingrained in their behavior.
Today, on a couch or in a bed, turning also helps find the most comfortable position, much like humans adjusting their pillow or blanket before falling asleep.
Thus, this behavior, inherited from thousands of generations of wild life, is a mix of instinct, comfort, and survival. Even though it's no longer vital in our modern homes, it remains a natural and universal gesture among dogs.