I would say the scratching thing is instinct as well. I saw something interesting on TV (Animal Planet probably) about the scratching. They also feel a need to clear the area of brush and even snakes! Their instincts are very strong even as a young puppy. Bo, who is three months old, scratches my bedspread (not my favorite behavior!) before he lays down. Also, he will scratch an area where my schnauzer has lain, possibly re-marking it??
Animal behavior is fascinating isn't it?
