Dogs bury bones primarily due to an instinct inherited from their wild ancestors, such as wolves. This behavior, known as "food caching," is a way to save surplus food for later when meals are uncertain. In the wild, burying bones and food scraps helped protect the food from scavengers and kept it fresh by shielding it from sunlight and heat. This survival tactic allowed wild dogs to return later to the buried food during leaner times. The behavior persists in domestic dogs as a natural instinct, even though they are regularly fed. Dogs use their paws to dig a hole and hide prized possessions like bones, treats, or toys as a way to safeguard them. Some breeds, particularly those with hunting backgrounds, are more prone to this behavior. Additionally, dogs may bury items out of boredom, anxiety, or as a playful activity. The deeper the burying, the colder the soil, which acts like a natural refrigerator to keep the cache fresh.

Summary of reasons dogs bury bones:

• Instinctual food caching inherited from wild ancestors for food preservation and safety.
• Protection of resources from other animals and scavengers.
• Keeping food fresh by burying it underground out of sunlight and heat.
• Behavioral outlet for boredom or anxiety.
• Breed tendencies , with some hunting breeds displaying this more strongly.

This natural instinct is why dogs often dig up their buried bones or toys when they want to retrieve them later.