Dogs, like humans, have a lot of personality quirks. Sometimes, they’re clear about what they mean – a goofy smile means they’re happy, or panting means they are exhausted. Their body language can give off a lot of cues about what’s going on in their minds.
But did you know that how your dog sleeps can also tell you a lot about how they’re feeling?
My dogs sleep in different positions depending on their mood, so let’s go over some of the most common positions and meanings so you can better read your dog.
Side Sleeper
One of the most common positions for dogs to sleep in is on their sides. Their legs can be stretched out wide or tucked in closer to their body. If their legs are extended, you may even catch your dog running in their sleep during this position.
Dogs who sleep on their sides are well-loved dogs. They feel safe and relaxed in their environment, which leads to good dreams. They don’t need to regulate their body temperature. They are perfectly at ease.
Stomach Sleepers
Sometimes your dog just wants to take a quick cat nap, and that’s exactly what they do when they’re sleeping on their stomach. If something happens, they’re ready to go at a moment’s notice. This could be to defend you against a perceived threat or simply just to play if you want to. It doesn’t matter, they can adapt quickly.
Two common ways that dogs sleep on their stomach are with their heads on their paws directly or between them with their back legs splayed out. There’s not a whole lot of difference between what these sleeping positions mean. Dogs who sleep on their stomachs are typically protective and playful at the same time. They have your back as any best friend should!
Curled Up
When your dog sleeps curled up, it is also called the donut. Your dog is sleeping almost in a circular position, connected from top to tail. All their limbs are close to their body, and they’re curled up in a ball.
Dogs who sleep this way can indicate a few different things. They may be cold and trying to preserve body heat. This can also mean that they are protecting themselves from harm, trying to stay as small as possible. If your dog is getting used to a new space, they may sleep like this until they feel more comfortable.
Regardless, your dog may be feeling anxious about something. Once they calm down, they’ll likely adopt another sleeping position.
Belly Up
Dogs who sleep on their back are incredibly trusting of their environment. They feel safe enough to put their most vulnerable bits on display, and they’re not worried anyone, or anything is going to come and disturb their peace. You may even hear them snoring away because they’re in a deep sleep.
If it’s warm, this may also be a quick way for your dog to cool down. Your dog has sweat glands on their paws and their stomach is a heat source. When they are exposing these areas, they can quickly cool down.
If your dog sleeps on their back, that’s fantastic news for you. It means they feel at home with you.
Cuddled Up
Some dogs like to sleep cuddled up next to you or another dog. This sleeping position is a sign of affection. They want to get closer to the person or animal they are sleeping next to.
It’s a way that your dog shows their love and affection. They can be facing you or back to back. It doesn’t matter how they like to cuddle, it’s simply the fact that they want to be touching you even when they are asleep.
Dogs who sleep cuddled with you have a strong bond. They trust you unconditionally, and they show it through constant touch.
Burrowed Under Blankets
Some dogs like to sleep under blankets or clothes, readjusting themselves until they get the right position. They may even rest on pillows for maximum comfort. If your dog sleeps like this, they want to feel safe and secure.
This is especially true if they are sleeping under something that smells like their owner. They want that comfort, even when you’re not there. These dogs can be very affectionate, but they may need a little extra something to feel at home. Make sure to leave plenty of items out for them to nestle under – and don’t forget to check before you sit down lest you accidentally sit on them.
Raised Head
Dogs are much like humans, so if they are having trouble breathing, they may sleep with their heads raised. This will help alleviate some of the pressure and help them rest more comfortably. This is also true if they have a stomach ache.
If your dog sleeps with their head up frequently, you may want to get them checked out to make sure there’s nothing you can do to make them more comfortable. Sleeping with their head up, in addition to other symptoms like fast breathing, noisy breathing, and lack of energy, could be a sign of heart disease or cancer.
So, What Does My Dog’s Sleeping Position Really Mean?
How your dog sleeps can give you a glimpse at how they are feeling at their most vulnerable. It’s an unspoken form of communication. Depending on the situation, they may sleep in different positions, and this is completely normal. Your dog may just be trying to get comfortable and regulate their body temperature!
Remember that happy dogs can sleep up to 12 hours a day, while puppies may even sleep up to 20 hours. If you notice any serious changes in your dog’s sleeping patterns, you may want to consult with a vet to be safe. Their unconscious mannerisms may be a clue that they need treatment.
Otherwise, you can sleep easy knowing you can now decode your dog’s sleeping position!
