Dog Sleeping Positions and What They Mean
Do you have hundreds of photos of your furry friend sleeping? I’m sure most of us do. Dogs can come up with a variety of funny, cute, and awkward sleeping positions. However, dog sleeping positions can be more than just a photo opportunity; they can also tell you about your dog’s physical and emotional health. Let's take a dive into some different dog sleeping positions and what they mean.
Disclaimer: This article is not veterinary advice. If you believe there is a problem, it's best to see a professional.
Key Points
A dog’s sleeping position can tell you about their health, personality, and emotional state. Most sleeping behaviors are normal, but changes can signal needs or issues that need to be addressed.
Table of Contents
Why There Are so Many Dog Sleeping Positions
Dog sleeping habits can be hard to fully understand. Most of the time, when dogs sleep, they’ll choose whatever sleeping position is most comfortable for them. However, this can sometimes indicate things such as their age, general health, mental state, or typical personality.
Very few dog sleeping positions are concerning, but understanding them better can help you understand how to better care for their invisible needs.
On Their Side
Out of all dog sleeping positions, this one is one of the most common - when dogs sleep on their side with their legs stretched forward.
It would be unnatural for adult dogs to sleep in this position in the wild, since it leaves their stomach and vital organs exposed, so if your dog is happy in this position, it means that they trust you and feel secure in their environment. Some older dogs may also prefer this side sleeper position to ease any joint pain.
The “Lion’s Pose” (The Sphynx)
When dogs sleep in the ‘lion’s pose’ this typically means that they’re sleeping in an upright position with their head resting on their front legs and their back legs tucked in.
This is a common sleeping position to see when dogs are sleeping during the day. This is because the lion’s pose is more of a nap pose. Your dog is sleeping, but they have their eyes and ears forward in case something changes, so that they can quickly use their front legs to bound to their feet.
Some dogs who sleep in the lion’s pose may be nervous, but it can also just mean that they are protective and aware of their surroundings. They like to know where you are, so that they can come running to play with or protect you.
If you are worried that your dog is anxious, you can try making sure their dog bed is somewhere quiet and well-ventilated, or you could try the ‘swaddling effect’ by giving them a pair of pajamas or a jersey to feel cozier and more secure.
If you would like to see some dog pajamas, try Sparkpaws’ Dog Pajama Onesie collection.
The Superman Pose
The Superman pose is when a dog is sleeping on their belly with both their front and hind legs extended like they’re flying through the air.
Like the Lion’s pose, this also indicates that they’re probably not sleeping deeply and are ready to get up at a moment’s notice to go play again. You will typically see this sleeping position in young puppies or active dogs who’ve played until they’ve dropped - but who will be ready to get up again soon.
Belly Up Position
This is another sleeping position that may look strange to humans, but is quite comfortable for dogs. Normally, this means sleeping on their backs with their legs either splayed or up in the air.
Belly up sleeping normally means that your dog is quite comfortable and secure in their environment. They may have been playing before falling asleep in the position they were in. However, it could also indicate that they’re hot and trying to regulate their body heat by leaving their warm bellies exposed, or that their dog bed is too small to lie down comfortably.
Donut Position
The donut position typically refers to when your dogs sleep curled up with all of their limbs tucked into their body.
Dogs who sleep in the donut pose may be trying to conserve body heat on a cold day, as keeping their vital organs and limbs tucked tightly together helps them to stay warm all over. Dogs who sleep this way may also be feeling anxious, as the pose can be soothing for them and keeps them safe from attack.
While completely normal, you may see your dog sleep this way if they’ve been rescued recently, or if there has been a change that they’re still getting used to.
It's not an automatic flag for concern, but if your dog suddenly starts sleeping this way when the weather is normal and they’re not a typical donut sleeper, especially if they are restless and not sleeping well, then you may want to make sure that they’re not in any pain or feeling anxious.[1]
Neck Raised Position
The neck raised sleeping position is when dogs sleep with their head up on the side of the bed, on a fold of blanket, or on a pillow of some kind.
This is also a normal sleeping position that dogs might choose randomly. Sometimes it means that they want to lie on something comfy, but still keep their head up towards a doorway so they can wake up if something changes.
Sometimes it could also mean that the dog suffers from breathing problems, and this is the best way for them to keep their airways open. This is especially common in brachycephalic (short-faced) breeds and other dogs with asthma/allergies or snoring problems.
The Burrower
The Burrower position is when your furry friend likes to curl themselves inside blankets or dig into couches or other covers before going to sleep. This is normally seen with small dogs, but even bigger dogs can display this behavior.
Dogs that sleep in this position may be small and thin, and therefore feel warmer when curled up in covers. Some dogs seek blankets and other covers as a means of protection and comfort if they’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, as the warmth and softness can be similar to that of their mother or other packmates.
The Cuddler and the Back-to-you Poses
Some dogs sleep curled up close to you or other dogs in the house. This can be in any position, or maybe on top of or pressed up next to you. Some dogs may also press their backs up to you with their legs stretched out.
These sleeping behaviors are completely normal. It normally indicates that your dog feels comfortable and secure next to you, or that they might be a little bit lonely and want some companionship. Dogs feel vulnerable when sleeping, so having someone nearby can be a source of comfort.
When adult dogs sleep in a pile, it can be an important bonding exercise, and it shows that they have a close and affectionate relationship.
Sleeping on a Cold Surface
While not one of the typical dog sleeping positions, some dogs may choose to lie as flat as possible on cool surfaces, such as tiled floors or a cooling mat. When dogs sleep like this, it normally means that they are too hot.
Cooling a Hot Dog
We typically think of dog sleeping spots as cozy places, but if your dog is neglecting their bed to sleep on an uncomfortable, cold surface, then they are too hot. If it's a very hot day, you can help your dogs sleep in the cool by-
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Providing a fan
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Letting them sleep downstairs (warm air rises to upper floors)
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Providing a frozen treat
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Getting a cooling mat to lie on
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Making sure there is fresh, cold water nearby
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Giving hairy dogs regular trims
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Regular brushes to remove loose fur
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Fewer blankets during summer
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Providing shade during the day
Other Sleeping Behavior
Aside from sleeping positions, the way that dogs sleep may also tell you something about how they are doing.
Noises and Movement
Common sleep issues in dogs can include whimpering, ‘sleep running’, twitching, or barking in their sleep. Most of the time, this is just because they’re dreaming. It's normal for dogs to have dreams, and they may dream more or less based on your dog’s age and recent life events.
Dreams are not a problem, but if you’ve noticed an increase in the frequency or intensity of their dreams, or if they seem very distressed, then they might be suffering from anxiety or trauma. Speak to a vet if you feel you should be concerned.
Pacing and Digging
Many dogs will circle their beds or dig at their blankets before settling down. This is normal nesting behavior and nothing to worry about. If your dog is very destructive, then they might need more exercise and stimulation during the day.
Snoring
When dogs sleep, it's common to hear some snoring from time to time, especially in brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs, which are known to have breathing difficulty.
Snoring is also normal. However, if it suddenly starts out of nowhere or seems to cause breathing troubles, then getting a checkup can be a smart plan.
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Conclusion
The way your dog sleeps can tell you about their comfort, personality, and general well-being. This can range from relaxed positions like lying on their side or belly-up to more alert poses like the lion’s pose or superman stretch.
These positions can reflect how secure, warm, or aware your dog feels in their environment. Most sleeping positions are completely normal, but paying attention to sudden changes or unusual behavior can help you better understand your dog’s needs and ensure they stay happy, comfortable, and healthy.
If you have a pup that is suffering from anxious sleeping, or has gone through a recent life-change like a new baby or a move, consider getting them a comforting pair of dog pajamas to help. Check out Sparkpaws’ Dog Pajamas Onesies Collection, which includes options for surgical suits, for a variety of comfortable options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do Dogs' Sleeping Positions Tell You?
A dog’s favorite position can sometimes give you some insight into their physical health, comfort, personality, and emotional state. It can also indicate if they're feeling hot or cold.
Why Do Dogs Sleep Next to Your Head?
Your dog may sleep next to you for comfort and emotional support. This may be because they are feeling anxious, or a desire to guard you when you are sleeping. Your dogs feel safe in your presence.
How Do Dogs Decide Who They Sleep With?
Dogs will normally sleep with the person they feel closest to and most secure with, but other factors can come into play. They will normally sleep with their primary caregiver, but may also choose others, like small children, because they want to protect them or because they are easier to sleep next to.
How Does a Dog Normally Sleep?
The majority of dogs will sleep on their sides with their legs straight out most of the time, but other sleeping positions can be normal and comfortable for them too.
Ext Links
[1] https://animalemergencyservice.com.au