10 Dog Sleeping Positions and the Meaning Behind Them
Last Updated on Feb 17, 2023
Have you ever closely monitored your dog's sleeping position? They, too, have different sleeping positions, just like us humans. The way your little furry ball rests can tell you a lot about its behavior, personality, and a lot more.
Dog sleeping positions are cute, pleasing to the eyes, and, more importantly, informative about a dog's mental and physical state. Curious to know what these dog positions mean? We have covered everything you need to know about your beloved pet in our detailed guide. Let's get started with the meaning of different dog sleeping positions.
Dog Sleeping Positions With Their Meanings
We all come across some weird dog sleeping positions. The section below describes the various sleeping positions of dogs.
1. The Side Sleeper
The side sleeper is the most popular sleeping position in dogs. In this position, Dogs lie on the side with their legs extended. Dogs feel very safe and comfortable in this position as their vital organs are exposed.
Meaning
This position means that the dogs are safe, relaxed, and easygoing. It also means that the dogs are in familiar surroundings and are at a comfortable temperature.
2. The Superman
This position refers to the dog sleeping on its stomach with front legs stretched forward, and back legs stretched behind. This position is widespread with puppies who are energetic and playful.
Meaning
Dogs who sleep in this position are tired but ready to play in a blink of an eye. Puppies tend to take a nap during their play session in this position.
3. The Lion's Pose
This position is also known as 'the sphinx.' The Lion's pose sleeping position means that your dog sleeps with its head on top of its paws. The dogs can also sleep in this position by tucking their paws and resting their back legs on the side.
Meaning
This position means that the dog is sleeping but is ready to take off immediately if required. Experts suggest that dogs use this position when they want to sleep but want to be prepared to jump at a moment's notice.
4. The Donut
The Donut is possibly one of the cutest dog sleeping positions. The dog sleeps curled up in a ball in this position, with legs held close to its body. At times their nose even touches the back legs, and the tail also curls over the body.
Meaning
A dog sleeping in this position means protecting themselves from the surroundings and adjusting themselves to the temperatures. This position is common to stray dogs and dogs who are new to their surroundings.
5. The Cuddler Bug
The Cuddler bug is the most adorable dog sleeping position. The dog prefers to sleep on top of a person or another dog cuddled up in this position. If you want to cuddle with your dog, this position is for you.
Meaning
This position is a sign of love, affection, and bonding and that your dog wants to get closer to you or another dog.
6. Head and Neck Raised
This position refers to a dog lying with its head and neck raised. Dogs use the side of the bed or cushion for this position.
Meaning
This position means that the dog might have breathing issues, which allows them to get more air.
7. On the Tummy
Dogs sleep on tummy on a cold surface when they tend to feel hot. This position is similar to Lion's pose.
Meaning
This position means that the dog is feeling hot and adjusting the temperature by sleeping on a cold surface, whether it be a kitchen surface or a pavement.
8. On the Back
The back position refers to your dog laying down on its back with its belly up and legs in the air. This position might seem uncomfortable or a funny dog sleeping position, but it is one of the most comfortable position for the dogs.
Meaning
The dogs sleeping in this position suggest that they trust you and are familiar with the environment. This position also means that dog body heat is more and this position allows maximum air passage to all the body parts.
9. Back to Back
This position is similar to the Cuddler position. In this position, the dog places its back against the back of another dog or you.
Meaning
When a dog sleeps in this position, it means that they are showing love and affection. This position indicates a sense of intimacy in the dog.
Dog Sleeping Behaviour
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.
Check out our blog on Should you Be sleeping with your dog, to understand the different aspects of sleeping with your best friend.
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How Long Do Dogs Sleep?
Whether it may be kids or adults, one question that rings in everyone’s mind is how long they sleep? Do dogs sleep all day? Adult dogs sleep 12–14 hours a day. However, the hours of sleep vary based on their type of dog, age, daily activity, and built.
You might be wondering why do dogs sleep so much?
According to experts, “Dogs take naps several times a day depending on the dog; they sleep the most between 9 pm to 6 am.” Extended or long sleeping hours in dogs is due to their lost REM (Rapid Eye Movement) because they tend to jump on alertness. The smaller ones or Puppies sleep a lot more, up to 20 hours a day.
Check out our blog on How Much Do Dogs Sleep to understand our little furry friends’ normal and abnormal sleeping patterns.
How Can You Help Your Dog Sleep Better?
Your dog's sleeping habits can tell a lot about their mental and physical well-being. Experts suggest that a dog sleeping more or less than usual or in an unusual position might be an indication of an illness, and you need to consult your vet immediately.
The sleeping habits of your dog also depend on the type of environment you provide them for sleeping. Ensuring a good dog bed, some fluffy toys, cold temperatures, and some food and water nearby can help your dog with a fantastic sleep.
The Final Word
By now, you might have understood various dog sleeping positions, patterns, and behaviors. As a Dog lover, it is significant for you to help your beloved pet get a sound sleep. A dog’s rest depends a lot on the type of environment they get while sleeping. You need to build a perfect setting by choosing the right bed, lights, temperatures, toys, and food to get your dog the best sleep possible.
