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Your Dog’s Sleeping Positions And Habits Tell a Lot About Them
Have you ever noticed your dog sleeping and wondered what they’re thinking? If not, it’s time to observe the position they sleep in and how they twitch and move, as this can tell a lot about how your dog is feeling. The sleeping positions of your dog can reveal a lot about their health and happiness. But only if you know what to look for!
So, the next time you find your dog sleeping, consider noticing the following sleeping positions to understand what they mean:
- Sleeping on Their Side
- Curled up In a Ball
- The Superman: Sprawled Out on the Tummy
- Paws Up In The Air
- Back-to-Back or Snuggled Up
- Buried in Toys
In addition to your dog’s sleeping position, noticing their sleeping habits can tell a lot about them too. Consider looking out for the following sleep habits to understand what they mean:
- Digging and Circling
- Light Dozing
- Tail Wagging, Twitching or Barking Softly
- Agitation and Whimpering
- Excessive Twitching
Sleeping positions
You need to pay attention to the position your dog usually sleeps in, as this can tell a lot about them. For example, their favorite sleeping position may change based on how they’re feeling, where they’re sleeping, and who they are snoozing near. Moreover, injuries and soreness can also change the sleeping position of your dog, so if you notice anything unusual, look for any possible signs of pain. Here are some common sleeping positions of dogs and what they tell you.
On Their Side
Sleeping on the side leaves the vital organs exposed; a dog has to feel very comfortable and safe if he does so. If your dog likes to sleep on his side, he is likely easy-going and relaxed. However, he may change his sleeping position when sleeping in a new place or with someone unfamiliar. This sleeping position also allows free movement of the limbs during sleep, so you may expect more twitching and leg kicks when your dog is sleeping on his side.
Curled Up In a Ball
Many dogs like to touch their tail with their nose to curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is a common sleeping position for wild animals, as it keeps the vital organs safe, helps conserve heat, and makes getting up easy and quick.
However, if your dog tends to curl up while sleeping, he may not necessarily be uncomfortable or insecure in his surroundings – some dogs just like to sleep like that, especially if it is winter! In addition, this sleeping position does not leave the limbs free to move, and so, you will likely see less twitching from a curled-up dog.
The Superman: Sprawled Out on the Tummy
This position allows a dog to be on his feet instantly, making him able to jump up and start playing at a moment's notice – hence, called the Superman position. Dogs who usually sleep in this position are very active and do not want to miss a chance to be in action. On the other hand, it is the favorite position of pups who are full of energy all the time or those who tend to get sleepy during the play and just want to sleep on the spot.
Paws Up In The Air
While curling up in a ball helps conserve warmth, sleeping on the back and exposing the belly helps a dog cool off. Since the belly fur is thinner and the paws have sweat glands, dogs tend to expose these areas while sleeping to beat the heat in summers. However, this position makes it difficult to get up quickly and reveals the most sensitive areas, and so it indicates that the dog is super comfortable and perhaps does not have a care in the world.
Back-to-Back or Snuggled Up
If you notice your dog sleeping back-to-back with other pets or snuggling up to you, he may be feeling very loving and affectionate. Snuggling is a way to show that he wants to bond with and get close to you. It also shows that he is very comfortable with you. If you notice your dog snuggling up, try reciprocating the love and taking a nap with your furry friend.
Buried in Toys
If you notice your dog sleeping while buried in a toy, he may be trying to tell you something. He loves his toys! Be sure to give him lots of soft plushies to take to bed.
Sleeping habits
The sleeping behaviors of dogs tend to give clues about their quality of sleep. Just like in humans, sleep is crucial for healing and repairing the body. When your pet doesn't get good sleep, you won't get good sleep! The following signs and habits will help you ensure that your dog is getting the best sleep possible.
Digging and Circling
Dogs usually like to circle their sleeping area or dig a little hole before lying down to sleep. Digging a hole keeps them warm in winter and cool in summer. While circling a few times before laying down is normal for dogs, doing it excessively or having trouble settling in may be a red flag for arthritis or a neurological issue. So look out for these signs and consult a vet if you notice excessive circling.
Light Dozing
Dogs tend to doze off during the day if they have nothing exciting to do or just to get some rest. Light dozing does not, however, provide proper rest. Consider noticing your dog's ears if they perk up at any kind of movement or noise. If they do, it indicates that your dog is alert and is just waiting for something interesting to get up. For example, you might want to take him for a walk in the park or play fetch to tire him out. Or consider a high-quality pet door for your dog so they can run to yard at a moment's notice.
Tail Wagging, Twitching or Barking Softly
Twitching, wagging, leg kicks, and soft barks or grunts are common during REM sleep – these behaviors indicate your dog is getting good, deep sleep. Puppies and elderly dogs, in particular, tend to move more frequently during their sleep. However, twitching may also mean that your dog is feeling cold. So, consider getting him a blanket or move him to a warmer area.
Agitation and Whimpering
If your dog is moving, whimpering, or barking more than usual with signs of anxiety, he might be having a nightmare. You would want to calm him down, stroke his back, and call his name softly. He may either wake up or simply relax and continue sleeping after receiving comfort. If you recently started noticing sleep anxiety in your dog, it may be a result of the return to work following the lockdown. Our dogs got used to us being around all day, so it's a hard transition for them too! Check out how to reduce separation anxiety for your pet after working from home.
Excessive Twitching
Excessive twitching might be a sign of seizure – and it requires immediate medical attention.
If you notice abnormal movements, try calling your dog's name. If he responds and wakes up, it must have been a bad dream, but if he continues to shake or feel stiff, it is an emergency!
You should pay attention to your dog's usual sleeping positions and habits so that you can identify when something is unusual. These signs will help you make sure your dog sleeps properly and wakes up as fresh as ever! Considering a new pet door for your well-rested pooch? Check out what makes the Endura Flap the best pet door.
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This was very helpful. One question why does my dog dig in my covers and nest ?
Sleeping positions informative. Thx
why is my dog just sleeping on his bed and his tail is tucked? he is not yawning and he likes being around me. help!