Many pet owners have experienced it: you leave a shirt on the bed or a jacket on a chair, and your dog quickly claims it as their new favorite resting spot. While it may look like a simple preference for softness, this behavior often has deeper roots in instinct and emotional bonding. Dogs rely heavily on scent to interpret their world, and clothing carries the familiar smell of their favorite person. By curling up on these items, they surround themselves with a comforting reminder of connection and security.To understand this habit, begin with the role of scent in a dog’s life. A familiar aroma can calm anxiety and reinforce attachment, especially when an owner is away. Unwashed garments tend to hold stronger natural scents, which may explain why pets often choose recently worn items over freshly laundered ones. In unfamiliar environments or during routine changes, this scent-based reassurance can provide stability and reduce stress.