Dogs are adorable creatures. As a dog owner, making cute videos of your dog must be your go-to stress relief. The best time to film your dog is when they sleep, owing to the weird and funny positions. Did you know there are hidden meanings behind your dog sleeping positions? This article will uncover some reasons why your dog sleeps in a particular position.
Dog Sleeping Positions
#1 Dog Sleeping on the Side
Side sleeping is commonly seen in puppies and aged dogs. Because puppies have small limbs, extending them to the side is best, whereas older dogs might have stiff joints.
- Dog sleeping on the side indicates that your dog is comfortable and relaxed.
- Some sleeping positions are related to temperature. A side sleeping position means that there is an ideal temperature that your dog does not want to change.
- This can also mean that your fur buddy is in a deep sleep, so dream running or any other response to dog dreaming can be noticed in this stage.
- In short, your dog has the best sleep in this position.
#2 Sleeping Back to Back
It is very similar to the cuddling position. It is most likely a back-to-back position when they curl up beside you or against another pet in your house.
- It is a show of intimacy and trust. You can also figure out your canines’ favorite member in the family by checking with whom they sleep back-to-back.
- It is considered a big sign when your dog chooses to sleep beside you, as he feels safest.
#3 The Donut Position
The “donut,” “fuzzy bagel,” or the “curled up “position is when the dogs curl up in a ball with their paws tucked in and tail wrapping them. They might sometimes use their tail as a pillow.
- This position is mostly seen in the fall or winter season. It helps the dogs to preserve body heat and keep their vital organs safe and hidden.
- It signifies that the dog is seeking protection and safety. You can notice this pose when you get a new dog or shift to a new place.
- It is the most prevalent position to sleep for stray dogs.
#4 Head and Neck Raised
If you find your dog sleeping with his head and neck raised, it could mean something important. It could be any situation where they keep their head above the level of their body. Even if they are wrapped in a dog blanket, their face will be completely uncovered.
- This dog position indicates breathing problems or underlying severe conditions like chronic heart disease.
- You can administer other symptoms like a faster breathing rate, lethargy, or noisy breaths before going to a vet.
#5 Dog Superman Position
This is a position in which your furry friend is in a flying pose with their bellies on the floor, front legs stretched ahead, and the back legs behind. It is a common pose in puppies or very energetic and joyful dogs.
- It is their way of telling you that they would love to play a few minutes of fetch.
- This position explains their tiredness along with their willingness to keep playing. If you are ready to receive sloppy kisses and a warm hug as a thank you from your dog, you must spend some time with them once they awake.
- Dog superman position is the most common pose of day-sleep as it enables them to hop onto their feet when required.
#6 Burrowing Position
If a dog requires a lot of pillows or blankets or digs in the ground to make space and get warmth, they are liked to sleep in a burrowing position. It is simply when dogs sleep under the blankets, covering themselves.
- This position clarifies that your pet needs some comfort and security.
- It could be a regular habit for them to sleep in blankets, so you do not need to worry about it. In any case, do not forget to give some love to them.
#7 The Lion’s Pose
Like ferocious lions, you can see your little pet resting his head on his paws while sleeping; this is known as the lion’s pose. Dogs may tuck their front paws in and have their rear limbs on one side. This positioning is also referred to as “The Sphinx Pose.”
- It is your dog’s napping pose. They are merely resting, which is in no way a deep sleep.
- If they are in a playful mood or require some stimulation but cannot get it, they might take a nap in this position.
- It is the “ready-to-run” position.
#8 Cuddling Position
When your dog needs no regard for your personal space and leaves no space for you to sleep, it is the cuddling position. Dogs like to sleep close to their owners, which is the cutest way of showing affection.
- It signifies love, affection, care, proximity, and bonding.
- Your dog is a cuddler because he wants to bond well with you.
#9 Dog Sleeping on Back or Belly-Up
Dogs are the cutest when they sleep on their backs with their bellies out! The meaning behind this is just as endearing.
- This is a snug and relaxing position for them.
- For dogs sleeping on their backs means that they are not afraid to be vulnerable in front of you because they trust you the most and feel secure around you.
- They might want to get belly rubs and attention after waking up.
- Since they have fur and sweat glands on their belly and paws, they expose these organs to air to cool them down.
Dog Sleeping Behaviors
Circling
Dogs circle their bed before plopping down, unlike humans. It has an evolutionary reason of self-preservation behind dog walking in circles. If the circling and digging are excessive, it could also indicate discomfort or pain.
Dog Twitching in Sleep
Your pet twitching in sleep is fairly common to do in a deep sleep. It can also be accompanied by running, wagging of the tail, barking, or soft sounds.
Dreaming
Little puppies do adorable activities during dreaming. But adult dogs dream too. Their dreams are supposed to be recollections of their day’s events.
Dog Snoring
Snoring is common in dogs who sleep with their head upraised. Just like humans, this is a common sign of breathing issues. Dogs with small snouts, like boxers, bulldogs, or pugs, are most likely to snore.
Barking or Squeaking
Dog whimpering in sleep, soft barks, or squeals are normal. You should not be worried about it. Dog barking in sleep means they are reacting and responding to something they see in their dream.
Running
If a dog is chasing a squirrel or trying to catch a butterfly in its dream, its paws might start moving in unison.
Where Should my Dog Sleep at Night Time?
The age and personality of your dog dictate where you should let your dog sleep. You should make sure to provide comfortable and soft blankets. You can make your pooch sleep with you on your bed and cuddle together. But if your pet is an adult and stirs too much in sleep, you can consider other options. These are the available options:
- Dog crates: It is snug and safe, and you can carry the crate easily.
- Dog bed: It can be explicitly designed to fit their needs. You can arrange a dog bed in your room to be safe.
- In your bed: It will help prevent separation anxiety or nervousness at night.
How Long Do Dogs Sleep?
Wondering how long your pets spend for their slumber? It depends on the kind of dog you own and their activities. A typical adult dog is likely to sleep 12-14 hours daily. But they can sleep more or less depending on how tired or weak they feel. On the other hand, puppies sleep at least 18-20 hours a day. Dogs can take power naps or sleep in the afternoon out of boredom. You should contact a professional if there are sudden changes in dog behavior.
How Can you Help your Dog Sleep Better?
There are a few things you can do to make sure that your dog sleeps peacefully. Considering these things will also let you figure out where should my dog sleep at night time. They are:
- Note their sleeping habits and mark the changes, if any.
- Make a proper schedule after knowing answer for how long do dogs sleep. A dog’s most potential hours of sleep are 9:00 PM – 6:00 AM.
- Make sure their bedding is cozy and filled with their favorite sleep toys.
- Do not let them drink too much water before bed.
- Play a piece of peaceful and soothing music.
- Improve your sleeping habits if your dog is used to sleeping with you.
- Keep water nearby, so they don’t lose sleep in search of it.
Conclusion
You can figure out many things by learning and understanding the different sleeping positions of your pet. Besides, the dog sleeping on back is a great gesture where your pet loves to rest on its favorite member. It is cute and interesting to know the meanings behind the various poses. You must ensure a good night’s sleep for your pooch.