It’s often said that only three things are certain in life, and for every good dog parent, those are:
Being followed to the toilet,
Never eating in peace,
A camera roll filled with photos of your fur baby sleeping.
Like us, dogs sleep in many different positions, and while they might not necessarily choose these consciously, they can reveal a lot about how they are feeling both physically and emotionally.
1. Side Sleeping
Perhaps one of the most common sleeping positions, side sleeping indicates that your dog is comfortable and relaxed. In the wild, exposing their belly would leave them vulnerable, so if your dog sleeps on their side, it’s a sign they feel safe and trust their surroundings.
Side sleeping is also often seen during deep sleep, so don’t be surprised to see some twitching or “sleep running” as they dream!
2. Curled in a Ball (A.K.A The Doughnut)
When dogs curl up into a tight ball with their paws tucked in and tail wrapped around their body, it’s often for one of two reasons:
They’re trying to conserve body heat and stay warm.
They’re feeling anxious or adjusting to a new environment.
If you’ve recently brought home a new puppy or adopted a rescue dog, they might sleep like this until they feel more settled. A little extra love and reassurance can help them feel safe and secure.
It’s also not uncommon to see dogs sleeping like this during colder months as they try to keep warm.
3. Head Resting on Their Front Paws (A.K.A The Lion’s Pose or The Sphinx)
If you catch your dog dozing off with their head resting on their front paws, it’s a sign that they’re relaxed but still alert and ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. This position is common when dogs feel protective or are on high alert, so you’ll likely see it during the day - especially when the postman is due!
Don’t be surprised if your dog assumes this position near the front door or at the foot of a cot if you’ve recently welcomed a new baby. It’s just their way of watching over their pack!
4. On Their Belly With Legs Stretched (A.K.A The Superman or Sploot)
One of my personal favourite dog sleeping positions, the “Superman” or “Sploot” is often displayed by energetic dogs and puppies who simply can’t stop moving! Dogs who sleep like this are usually tired but still ready to play at a moment’s notice, so it’s not uncommon to see it after an energetic play session.
This position also helps dogs cool down, so if your pup sploots on a cool floor, they’re probably just trying to beat the heat.
5. Belly Up
Sleeping on their back with their belly fully exposed is a key indication that your dog feels comfortable and safe in their environment. In the wild, this would be considered a vulnerable position as they are exposing their vital organs while they sleep - so it also indicates a high level of trust and relaxation!
Sleeping “belly up” can also help dogs to cool down, so you might see your dog in this position during the summer or after an active walk or play session.
6. Raised Head
If your dog sleeps with their head propped up on a cushion, the arm of the sofa, or even your lap, it’s usually because they’re comfortable that way. However, dogs with breathing issues may also use this position to help them get more air.
If your dog has recently started sleeping like this or is showing other signs of difficulty breathing, such as noisy breathing or getting out of breath easily, contact your vet for advice.
7. Cuddling (Another Person or Animal)
If your dog loves to cuddle while they sleep, they’re showing affection and bonding. Whether it’s with you, another family member, or even a fellow pet, this position suggests that they feel comfortable and secure.
A dog that loves to cuddle is a dog that loves deeply – so take those cuddles as the compliment they are!
8. Back-to-Back (With a Personal or Animal)
Similar to cuddling, sleeping back-to-back is a sign of comfort and affection, and is often seen in dogs who have formed strong bonds with their humans or other animals.
According to many canine behaviourists, back-to-back cuddling is also a sign of intimacy and trust. So, if your dog often curls up back-to-back with you, they see you as part of their pack and trust you completely.
What About Where They Sleep?
It’s not just their sleeping position that matters - where your dog chooses to sleep can also reveal a lot about how they’re feeling:
Sleeping on the Floor: If your dog prefers the floor over your bed or sofa, it’s not a sign that they don’t love you. In fact, it’s quite the opposite! Dogs who sleep on the floor feel safe and secure in their environment, or they may simply be trying to cool down on a cooler surface.
Sleeping in a Crate: If your dog is crate trained, they may take themselves off to this spot for a deep, undisturbed sleep. Crate trained dogs often see this as their “safe space”, so it’s not uncommon to see them retreating to their crate if they’re feeling overwhelmed by loud noises or visitors, or in an unfamiliar environment.
Sleeping in your Bed: Nothing indicates a strong bond between you and your fur baby quite like sharing a bed! If your dog chooses to sleep in your bed rather than their own, it’s a good indication that they feel safe around you and enjoy the extra feeling of warmth and security you provide.
Sleeping on the Sofa: If your dog has a favourite spot on the sofa, they’re likely drawn to the extra comfort and warmth it offers. And if they prefer to snuggle with you on the sofa, it’s just another way of showing their love, affection, and trust.
Final Thoughts: The True Meaning Behind Dog Sleeping Positions
Just like us, every dog has their own unique sleep habits, and the positions they choose can reveal a lot about their emotional and physical state. From the playful “Sploot” to the vulnerable “Belly Up,” each sleeping position tells a beautiful story of trust, comfort, and love.
Understanding these sleeping habits not only brings us closer to our fur babies but also helps us ensure they’re happy, healthy, and well-rested. It’s just another way we can return the love they give us so freely every day.
As always, I would like to reiterate that I am not a veterinary professional. If you notice any changes in the way your dog sleeps, or are in any way concerned about their wellbeing, contact your vet immediately for further advice.
And if you’d like to learn more about the signs your dog loves you, check out my recent blog, “I Woof You: Signs Your Dog Loves You.”
Comments