10 Dog Sleeping Positions
2. Lion’s Pose/Sphinx
Dogs usually sleep in this position when they are feeling protective or feel like they will have to jump up at a moment’s notice.
If you’ve ever watched a young pup plop over and fall asleep in the middle of playing, it’s likely in this position! Dogs who tire themselves out from playing usually fall asleep in the Superman – and are ready to pop up for more playing at the drop of a hat.
Sometimes this is a sign of anxiety and needing attention to fall asleep, but sometimes it’s not a serious issue. Try adding some more blankets to your dog’s sleeping area or getting a dog bed with a built-in burrowing area to see if that comforts them to sleep.
Has your dog ever curled up so tight they rival a Sunday morning cinnamon bun? When they curl up into a ball with all their limbs tucked in, that’s known as a donut. This position usually occurs when a dog is trying to keep themselves tucked and protected, usually for two reasons
If your dog is sleeping in this position, make sure they are warm and cozy – and if they’re new in the home, give them time to adjust.
7. On their back
Dogs most commonly use this sleeping position to stay cool, since dogs release heat through their paws. But it’s also a sign that they fully trust their surroundings and don’t sense any danger, so if a dog sleeps like this around you, then you can take it as a compliment!
8. Back to back with another person or animal
But some dog behavior experts believe that back-to-back cuddling is a sign of intimacy. Dog behavior specialist Jen Jones has observed that dogs tend to sleep back to back with those they feel safest with and trust the most.
If your dog snuggles up with its back towards you, consider it a badge of honor.
9. On something cold
You’ll most likely see your dog sleep this way after a walk in warm weather or an intense play session. Just make sure your dog has access to water and does not appear to be overheated. Cooling pads for dogs can also come in handy during the hot summer months.
While sometimes it’s nothing more than your dog being silly, if you notice your dog often sleeps with their head propped up on something then you should pay attention. In some cases, it could be a sign that they are having issues breathing properly. Keep an eye out for fast breathing rates, noisy breathing, or getting out of breath easily – contact your vet if you see any of these signs in your dog.
You may come across different behaviors of dogs or dog sleep patterns. Although it has nothing to do with their personality, it can tell you a lot about their sleep quality.
1. Dreaming: Just like us humans, dogs also dream. Generally, they imagine what happened during the day.
2. Barking: Dog Barking in sleep is entirely normal and nothing to worry about; it might be because of a weird dream.
3. Twitching: Dogs twitch during their sleep. According to experts, the main reason that dogs twitch in sleep is that they are dreaming. There is nothing to worry about if your dog is twisting and running in his or her sleep.
4. Snoring: It’s common for dogs to snore. It could be because of the breathing issues they could be facing or because of that short little nose of his.
5. Running: Don’t worry the next time you see the legs of your dog moving while they are sleeping on the side. They might be running a marathon or catching a thief in their dream.
6. Digging: We simply love to see our dogs circle and the extra mud, grass, or snow. But have you ever imagined why? Because of their ancestors- wolves, who used to clear the excess soil to sleep comfortably.
I’m Bobbi Jo, a lab-lover who took my passion for animals and dogs and turned it into something bigger. When I adopted Jake and Maggie, my love for them became the driving force behind Two Adorable Labs, and my blog was born. My hope is to not only share them with the world, but to help educate others on the importance of animal health and well-being.
I love hearing from all of you and do my best to respond to each and every one of you. I always enjoy your comments, feedback, and suggestions so keep them coming! If I’ve posted a recipe (for our human and our furry friends) and you try it, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @twoadorablelabs and use #twoadorablelabs.
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I really enjoyed reading about sleeping and sleep patterns. I am looking forward to how to make a bow just in time for Christmas! Thank you!
Awh so glad you enjoyed the post! I hope my bow video helps you. It’s super easy. I promise :-).
Very interesting read. Milo does about half of them regularly. It makes me feel good that it means he’s relaxed, secure, and loved. Can’t wait for the bow video cause I’ve never been able to master it. Looking forewarn to watching! Good job Bobbi Jo! ❤️👏👏
So glad you enjoyed the post. I’ll try to research more topics like this. I hope my bow video helps you. It’s coming out tomorrow morning in your inbox :-).