Why Does My Dog Steal My Underwear? 5 Vet-Verified Reasons & FAQ

Underwear isn't usually expensive, but it can disappear fast when your dog gets a hold of it. Some pups are particularly fascinated with it, which is unfortunate since it can cause an obstruction if they consume it. If you've had to throw away a few pairs of undergarments recently, you're probably wondering what to do about your dog and your dwindling underwear stash. Here are five likely reasons why your dog is stealing (and eating) your underwear.

The 5 Reasons Your Dog Steals Your Underwear

1. Underwear Smells Like You

Oddly enough, stealing your underwear may be related to your dog’s attachment to you. It has a particular, concentrated scent unique to you, and your dog likes it. It's weird, but it's a common behavior. Canines experience the world primarily through their nose, and scent plays a major role in how they gather information and interact with their environment. They enjoy the mental stimulation of discovering new scents.

2. Stress and Anxiety

A highly anxious dog may target your underwear for relief. Since your underwear smells like you, your scent could comfort your dog and temporarily reduce their stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety are common in dogs, especially when they haven't been properly socialized or experienced major life changes, separation-related distress, or a lack of environmental enrichment. These pups may struggle with separation or changes in routine, and dogs that became accustomed to increased owner presence may find longer absences difficult.

3. Pica

Pica is a condition where dogs consume inedible items. Pica is not uncommon in dogs, and it may be associated with behavioral conditions (such as anxiety or boredom), medical disorders, or nutritional deficiencies. It's worth mentioning since items that carry the owner's scent may be targeted, especially if the behavior is reinforced. It's vital to visit your vet if you notice your dog frequently chewing on your underwear, socks, towels, and pantyhose.

4. Boredom

It probably isn't surprising to see boredom on the list of causes. Dogs have so much energy, and if they can't release it with exercise, they can become bored and anxious. Since your dog is stealing your underwear, they may be bored and want something to chew on. The fact that your underwear smells like you is just a bonus.

5. Teething

If you have a puppy, they may be teething, and your underwear provides relief when they chew on it. Puppies have baby teeth that erupt when they're around 3 to 4 weeks old and remain until they're about 3 to 6 months old when the permanent teeth begin replacing them. It's crucial to provide appropriate chew toys to help them handle the teething process.

Is It Dangerous for My Dog to Eat My Underwear?

Eating underwear can be dangerous for your dog, if it happens often or if larger pieces are swallowed. Objects like clothing can block your dog's intestinal tract and require expensive veterinary intervention.

Your vet can help you determine why your pup eats underwear and remove any pieces lodged in their gut. Sometimes, more invasive procedures like endoscopies and surgery are necessary, but some segments may get passed in their stool without complication, though this should never be assumed without veterinary monitoring.

How to Stop Your Dog From Stealing Your Undies

Dog owners don't want to deal with expensive vet bills. So, how do you stay out of the vet clinic and keep money in your wallet? It all comes down to preparedness. The best thing you can do is prevent your dog from accessing your clean clothes and keep your dirty clothes in the hamper. You may have to lock your hamper away in a separate room or closet.

When you leave the house, offer your dog plenty of chew toys and food puzzles to stay busy. Food is always a great way to distract your dog, and food puzzles help satisfy a dog's instinct to forage and chew. Just make sure the chew toys are safe for your dog's age, size, and breed.

Conclusion

Dogs like getting into anything and everything. Even when we do everything we can to prevent them from chewing on our personal belongings, they still find a way to get into the trash or, in this case, the laundry hamper. It's frustrating, but keeping your dog busy with toys and enrichment items that won't result in a trip to the vet is the right way to go.

We know it's easy to throw the clothes on the floor and leave them there, but now it's time for new habits to keep your dog safe. So, grab that laundry hamper, lock it up, and do everything you can to discourage your pup from stealing your undergarments.

See also: 

• Why Does My Dog Steal My Socks? 6 Likely Reasons & Solutions

• Why Does My Dog Lay on My Clothes? 5Common Reasons

Featured Image Credit: Tara Lynn and Co, Shutterstock