Ever wondered what your dog’s sleeping position says about their health? A big element of your dog’s sleeping position that reflects on its body language is its posture which can help reveal sickness or any discomfort bothering them. Like humans, a dog’s sleeping positions can reveal much about their physical and emotional state; when unwell, such positions can be instructive indicators of general comfort and health. Indeed, recognizing subtleties in the way they sleep will allow the pup parent to give their ill dog exactly what they need to recover.
As it turns out, these sleeping behaviors are rooted in their instincts. According to veterinarian Dr. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinary officer at the American Kennel Club (AKC), “Their sleeping positions can be interesting to understand as they shed a little light into their behavior, and much of it is inherited from their more primitive canine ancestors.”
In this article, we will consider common sleeping positions of sick dogs, their indications, and ways to respond effectively. Whether curled up tight, sprawling like Superman, or snuggling close, each position holds clues to their health. Keep reading to discover the hidden language of your dog’s sleeping positions and become a more attuned, caring dog mom or dog dad.
Understanding Your Pup’s Sleep: 12 Sick Dog Sleeping Positions
Sick dogs change their sleep patterns, and there are important clues to a dog’s possible health. Interestingly, studies show that, on average, dogs sleep in the two most prevalent postures – 84.2% sleep lying on their side, while 63.6% sleep in a curled manner. However, their sleeping patterns may be altered when the animals are ill. But what do these positions tell us about our furry friends? “In most cases, which position they choose likely depends on their preference in the moment,” says Dr. Patrik Holmboe, head veterinarian at Cooper Pet Care. Let’s explore the top 12 dog sleeping positions when sick.
1. Curling Up in a Tight Ball (The Donut):
This sleeping position in dogs may indicate serious underlying issues. During winter, this is the position that breeds such as the Siberian Husky snuggle up with their owners to retain as much body heat as possible and get out of the cold. However, this can be a coping mechanism occurring when your dog is feeling insecure or anxious about their environment. Interestingly, studies have shown that dogs curl in one direction, with most dogs curling counterclockwise, which may be related to their natural tendency to protect their vital organs.
The tightened curl may make them feel safer, more secure, and out of the reach of potential harm. If your dog sleeps this way, consider whether it’s because of cold weather, where they need physical comfort or reassurance due to insecurity within the environment. If this is a sudden change, it might signal discomfort or stress—keep an eye out. Understanding such behaviors helps you bond better with your pet and notice their needs when they’re not well.
2. Side Sleeping: A Sign of Deep Rest or Sudden Fatigue?
Generally, dogs that sleep on the side have no issues with the environment they are placed in or with the pup parent. This is believed to be an indicator of safety, comfort, and a lack of any predisposition to threat. However, the sudden change from the usual posture to sleeping on the side could be due to fatigue or a need for deeper rest due to an illness. This is a notable variation in dog sleeping positions that can indicate health issues and needs close monitoring of their general behavior. Pair this with lethargy or appetite loss, and it might hint at something more serious.
3. Sphinx Position (Lying on the Stomach):
The sphinx position, also known as the “lion’s pose,” is when the dog lies down on its stomach with its legs bent at the knees, pulled closer to the body, and head lifted. In sick dogs, it may indicate their inability to breathe easily or become uncomfortable if forced to lie flat. According to Dr. Stanley Coren, professor emeritus in the Psychology Department at the University of British Columbia, “if you see a dog in a lion pose — with his paws stretched forward and head resting on his paws like the statues of reclining lions in front of some government buildings—the dog is apt to be simply dozing and not in a deep sleep state.” This position allows them to be ready to move quickly if they need to, which can be a sign of unease or pain. If your dog exhibits this sleeping pattern most of the time, it is important to keep a watchful eye on his habits and well-being.
4. Belly-Up: Cooling Down or Back Pain?
Why do dogs sleep on their backs? Sometimes, a dog that sleeps on its back with an exposed belly is not vulnerable or ill and trusts the people around it. Still, a dog may adopt this position if it has lots of pain in its back or abdominal area or has a fever and is attempting to cool down. This is especially common if your pup is overheated and trying to dissipate body heat by exposing their less-furred underside.
This can be particularly the case if the position is accompanied by such symptoms as shortness of breath or any other signs of discomfort. Pup parents often wonder, why do dogs sleep on their backs or why does my dog sleep on his back, especially in such scenarios? Knowing the reasons why your dog sleeps on his back will help you better understand how to support his needs and ensure a comfortable and happy life for the beloved pet.
5. Seeking Solitude: Hiding When Unwell
If your dog is starting to look for hidden and obscure places like under your bed to lie down, it’s a warning sign. This may be because your dog is feeling sick and does not need the company of others. As a pup parent, check for vomiting or appetite shifts alongside this behavior.
This change in dog sleeping positions can be alarming as it often signals extreme discomfort or even stressed conditions of the animal and may require consulting with a veterinarian.
6. The Superman Sploot: Exhaustion or Joint Pain?
Superman position, also known as the “flying dog” pose, is a popular sleeping position dogs take when they sleep on their stomachs with the front and hind legs stretched to the sides, similar to Superman flying. Such a pose would allow the dogs to relax and expand their muscles, including the chest and shoulder area, but it also signifies safety and comfort.
This position tends to be for canines who are exhausted, yet at the same time ready to play in an instant—a common trait in puppies, since they do a lot of playing and then sometimes sleep briefly in this position. It is, however, important to note that this sleep position may sometimes indicate overheating during summer times because if not monitored, it could lead to heat exhaustion. If this is frequent, consider if they’re too warm or uncomfortable.
Furthermore, if your dog sleeps in the Superman position frequently, it could indicate that your dog has joint pain or discomfort, extending the legs to alleviate pressure off the joints.
7. Stiff-Legged: Muscle Pain or Neurological Issues?
If your dog lies stiff-legged, without even relaxing enough to curl up, this may be a sign of muscle pain, stiffness, and even arthritis. This kind of sleeping could also be due to neurological problems or leg/paws discomfort. If your dog is constantly sleeping in this manner, it will be wise to observe their behavior and other signs of illnesses or discomfort that manifest themselves by whining, licking, chewing at their legs or paws, difficulties in standing or walking, and changes in appetite or mood. If they can’t relax, a vet visit is in order. In case you suspect something is wrong, seek professional help to prevent your condition from worsening and improve your overall quality of life.
8. Leaning for Support: Weakness or Dizziness?
The lean-to position is a sleeping posture in which dogs lean on a wall, furniture, or even on the pup parent for support. Such behavior usually indicates some health issues or emotional needs. If your dog perpetually sleeps in such a position, there might be dizziness and balance issues, associated with inner ear infections, vestibular disease, or other neurological disorders. This can also be a symptom of weakness or fatigue probably due to long-term illness, arthritis, or muscle degeneration. This might hint at ear infections or arthritis, so stay observant.
Your dog may also sleep in this position to ease some sort of ache or pain in the limbs or joints, which is often linked with hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, or even knee joint issues. Other dogs even lean on surfaces to be more relaxed and feel safer or more comforting.
9. Burrowing Deep: Anxiety or Need for Security?
Most dogs show this form of burrowing when they are feeling unwell or anxious. They sometimes hide underneath blankets, pillows, and even clothing. The instinctive action is a direct mimicry of the wild canines who create dens for themselves: a safe and secure space to rest and recuperate. Through burrowing, dogs can use their prehistoric instincts because that sort of activity will protect them from their imagined dangers; yet, it also enables them to retain body heat especially comforting things when they are sick or feeling vulnerable.
Burrowing can also be an emotional coping mechanism, which gives the dog a sense of comfort when it is stressed or uncomfortable. For the pup parent, this is very important; it means that the dog is looking for security and comfort in its environment, so it is essential to provide a warm and secure space where it can sleep peacefully while recovering from illness. Offer a cozy, quiet spot to help them feel safe.
10. Elevated Head: Respiratory Distress?
Generally, a raised head and neck is one of the most crucial poses in dogs and can offer insight into their comfort level and health. Usually, dogs sleep with heads that are held in an elevated position on a pillow or cushion, and there are a few possible causes. This position can be very frequently seen in dogs that might also develop respiratory illnesses, since raising their head and neck can improve the comfort of their breathing, thus keeping their airways clear. There are some breeds such as Greyhounds and Whippets, who feel pretty safe when their heads are lifted.
Such sleeping postures by a dog need attention from pup parents, considering that if this becomes habitual with the dog, or shows signs such as quick and noisy breathing, it might be a sign of illness that should be diagnosed by a veterinarian to avoid damaging the health and well-being of the dog. If this is new, especially with noisy breathing, call your vet pronto. In short, if a dog mom or dog dad gets to know how his pet sleeps, it will enable him to realize whether his pet is in some discomfort or perhaps suffering from some health issue and hence provide the necessary care in time.
11. The Cuddle Bug: Affection or Anxiety Relief?
When a dog sleeps in the cuddle bug position, it indicates affectionate behavior. The cuddle bug position is where the dog sleeps with their head or body against the owner or another pet. This means they’re looking for physical contact and companionship, which is a definite sign of a close relationship between the dog and its companion. Dogs that sleep in this manner are most likely to be comfortable and safe, knowing that their pack is close by. It can also be a sign of anxiety or stress relief because the outer contact is comforting to the dog. If your dog sleeps in the cuddle bug position, it means that they feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings and care about their relationship with you.
12. Nose Tuck: A Sign of Stress or Pain?
When the dog sleeps with his nose tucked into his tail or his body, this could be an indication that he is experiencing stress or anxiety. This behavior has been termed a self-soothing mechanism since the dog tries to calm down by putting his nose into a comfortable and secure space. If your dog is sleeping like this, it can indicate that they are tense or uncomfortable and have health issues. As with any variation from what is normal for your dog, you need to monitor their overall health closely and visit a veterinarian if you notice anything unusual and consistent.
How Sleeping Positions Signal Your Dog’s Illness
Here are a few indicators of sickness that can be detected through sleeping positions, and hence may help you take necessary steps toward diagnosis and treatment. These signs enable you to recognize the changes that will keep minor issues from becoming big health problems, and aid you in comforting sick dogs.
1. Increased Restlessness:
The psychological implication of movement, immobilization, and discomfort is illustrated in a study that a dog cannot lie still and constantly changes its position because of pain. So, in this case, constant checkups from a veterinarian are crucial and may indicate that something is wrong.
2. Unusual Rigidity:
If a dog finds a position tucks in its paws and uses elongated limbs to try to get comfortable, it could be in pain with joint issues, arthritis, or any other orthopedic problem. A happy dog would not show unusual rigidity. This position often signals the need for a thorough health evaluation.
3. Avoidance of Touch:
A sick dog might avoid lying close to their pup parents or other pets. This could be due to pain, fever, or general malaise, indicating they prefer solitude to cope with their condition.
4. Excessive Sleeping:
Even though dogs do sleep a lot, any abnormality in the volume of sleep or choosing to sleep at a time when dogs are usually active may be a sign of a health complication.
General signs include if one’s dog appears to be less active than usual or seems exhausted in some ways, then it is high time to call the veterinarian.
5. Twitching or shaking
Twitching or shaking in dogs during sleep is a major concern if the dog has mild tremors, muscle spasms, and twitching or shaking of its legs and tail, or shaking all from the head to tail. The possible causes might include muscle strain, arthritis, and internal injuries that lead to pain or discomfort. Neurological problems such as epilepsy, seizures, or nerve damage are equally responsible.
Do Sick Dogs Dream Differently?
Research has shown that dogs dream like humans, to process all events and emotions experienced during the day, so probably, your dog must be dreaming of things that you have been up to that day. However, their dreams may change depending on whether it is the illness or the kind of pain your dog is going through; that is, more specifically, the frequency, intensity, or even a dog’s dreams can change due to illness or discomfort.
Several possible causes can be associated with these alterations, among which the following have been noted: undesirable emotions, drugs, stress, anxiety, and neurologic diseases. Once again, these predisposing factors can make a dog more susceptible and thus alter his patterns of sleep, dreams, and brain waves, so that more dramatic or disturbing dreams may occur. Sudden changes in sleep patterns or excessive twitching? Time to check with your vet.
Therefore, Ashly Smith DVM, Regional Medical Director for Small Door Veterinary, notes, “If a dog’s sleep patterns change suddenly, or if they exhibit unusual behaviors like excessive twitching or convulsions during sleep, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian for proper evaluation.”
When to Seek Veterinary Care
If you notice any of the following symptoms along with changes in your dog’s sleeping positions, it’s crucial to seek veterinary advice:
- Persistent coughing or difficulty breathing.
- Vomiting or Diarrhea.
- Changes in appetite or water consumption.
- Swelling or lumps on the body.
- Sudden weight loss or gain.
- Changes in behavior, such as increased aggression or anxiety.
- Discharge or redness in the eyes or nose.
- Changes in gait.
- Changes in urination habits.
- Lethargy or depression.
Conclusion
The basic need of dogs that are sick is to get these sleeping positions well understood to ensure they are comfortable at all times. Therefore, realizing these signs at an early stage and visiting the vet is important so that the right treatment can be recommended to your dog. After all, pets are our loyal friends, and it’s our responsibility to care for them in return. Yet, even with the best efforts, so many dog moms and dog dads have to face the brutal reality of losing their pets; that can be such a heart-wrenching reminder that our time with them is precious and short.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Why’s my dog tossing and turning in their sleep?
Pups wiggle a bunch when they snooze sometimes. It’s totally fine for them to shift around to get comfy. They might move to cool off or snuggle up warm. Dreams make dogs twitch or kick, like when you mumble in your sleep. If they’re super restless, though, keep an eye out.
Why does my dog sleep right next to me?
Your furry friend loves being close! Dogs, pack animals by nature, feel safe near their dog mom or dog dad. It’s like they’re back with their puppy siblings, all cozy.
Do sick dogs have different dreams?
Yes, illness or discomfort can alter a dog’s dream patterns. Pain or stress can mess with their dreams, making them more intense or restless. Meds or brain issues could change how they snooze too. Spot crazy twitching or shaking? Call the vet to check it out.
Why’s my dog’s butt in my face when they sleep?
Sounds funny, but it’s a love thing! When your dog faces their butt your way, they’re guarding you. It’s an old pack trick—trusting you to watch their back. They feel super safe with you around.
What if my dog starts sleeping in weird spots?
Uh-oh, hiding under the bed? That’s a red flag if it’s new. Sick or stressed dogs might duck away to feel better alone. Watch for stuff like no appetite or acting off. A vet trip’s a smart move if this keeps up.
