Dogs are just plain adorable when they’re sleeping. Whether they’re cuddled up under a blanket or splayed out on the living room floor, it’s hard not to feel happy when you see your pooch having a peaceful snooze.
But did you know a dog’s sleeping position is also a form of communication? The more we pay attention to those signs, the more we can learn about our dog’s mood and confidence levels.
Let’s analyse 6 dog sleeping positions:
In the past we’ve looked at what we can learn from our dog’s barks, body language, and facial expressions. With this guide, you’ll also be able to find out what your dog’s sleeping position says about them!
Position #1: The Sleeping Superman
Dogs that fall asleep belly-down with their legs stretched out in all different directions are keeping themselves poised for play. As soon as nap time is over, they’ll be ready to pop up and join the fun and games.
This is a common position for puppies who can’t wait to play once this sleeping business is done.
Position #2: Belly Up
Your dog’s sleeping position, with their back to the floor and their legs in the air, is a sign of ease and confidence. The belly and underside of the neck are two vulnerable parts of the body that an anxious dog would want to protect. Your dog, on the other hand, is comfortable enough to show them to the world.
This is also a position that helps your pooch to cool off.
Position #3: Curled in a Ball
Unlike the Belly Up position, this sleeping style indicates that your pooch wants to protect themselves. Otherwise known as the ‘donut’, for some dogs this indicates anxiety but for others it’s simply the warmest and most comfortable position.
If your house is cold, this might be your dog asking you to cover them with their favourite blanket.
Position #4: The Side Sleeper
Like the Belly Up position, this style means your pooch is happy and comfortable. Some fun variations that you might see are upper body on the dog bed and the lower half on the floor; a side sleeper on the kitchen floor where it’s cool; or a side sleeper right on the couch. These are all happy doggos.
Position #5: The Sleeping Cuddle Pug
If your dog likes to snuggle into your arms, plop themselves down on your legs, or simply sleep next to you, you have yourself a Cuddle Pug. This is a good thing! This behaviour comes from when your dog was just a little puppy, cuddling with his mom and siblings.
When your dog cuddles with you, they’re showing that they love and trust you completely.
Position #6: Lion’s Pose
When your pooch is sleeping with their head on their paws, they’re sleeping lightly. This is common in dogs when they are in a new environment or shy in general. It might be a good idea to work on confidence builders so that your pooch can rest easy.
+ Some Bonus Dog Sleeping Positions & Habits
Now that you know more about your dog’s sleeping positions, let’s consider some other quirks they may display around bedtime.
- Circling before laying down. Dogs will turn around in their beds before plopping down to sleep because of their genetics. Wolves in the wild turn in circles as a way to make a comfortable doggie bed in the dirt, snow, or grass.
- Digging or covering up. Some breeds, like Dachshunds or Scottish Terriers, are more likely to look for a cozy blanket to tunnel into before taking a snooze. This hearkens back to their early breeding as burrowing hunting dogs. Providing these dogs with a crate or a bed with high rimmed edges is a great way to give them a similar experience as digging their own den.
The next time your pooch drifts off to dreamland, pay attention to some of the sleeping positions and habits we mentioned in this article. You’ll learn a lot about what’s going on in your four-legged-friend’s head!
Do you want to tire out your furry friend so they have a good night’s sleep? Book a Dog Walker to take the lead >
