8 Adorable Dog Sleeping Positions And Their Meanings

8 Adorable Dog Sleeping Positions And Their Meanings

Written by Mehran Uzair

Last Updated on Aug 23, 2022

In this article:

    Looking at your furry baby sleep just makes you go ‘aww,’ doesn’t it? The fluffy bundle of joy sometimes sleeps in the most adorable positions and sometimes becomes comfy in a position that looks like something from a horror movie!

    If you are a pet parent, you must have seen it all. The cute dog sleeping positions are something we just can’t get enough of. But, did you know? Dog sleeping positions can indicate how they feel and their personality. In fact, dog sleeping positions have meanings attached to them. Let’s unpack it all today. Read on to know the meaning if you are curious about why your dog sleeps the way it does.

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    8 Dog Sleeping Positions and Their Meanings

    Dog sleeping positions give you clues into your dog’s feelings and help you understand their personality. Every dog has a different sleeping habit, and you might notice your dog changing its sleeping positions as they grow. So let’s explore these famous, funny, and weird dog sleeping positions meaning, shall we?

    1. The Ball Pose 

    Illustration of The Ball Pose-Dog Sleeping Positions

    Also, known as the donut position (what a cute name!), you might have seen your dog sleeping in this dog sleeping position often. It is a position when your dog sleeps all curled up like a ball, bringing his face closer to his tail. 

    Sometimes they might wrap themselves up with their tail or rest their nose on their hind legs. 

    Meaning: If your dog sleeps in a ball dog sleeping position, it is trying to preserve its body heat. In simple words, your dog might be feeling cold. These types of dogs are caring but anxious too. Maybe a warm hug is in order! 

     

    2. The Side Sleeper 

    Illustration of Side Sleeper-Dog Sleeping Positions

    Just as you would like to sleep on your side, your pooch usually loves that too. If you see dogs lying on the side, then it means they trust you completely and are very much comfortable. This dog's sleeping position is usually seen in puppies or older dogs. 

    Meaning: If your dog often sleeps in this position, it means your dog is comfortable and relaxed. Dogs sleeping positions with owners like this means they are trustworthy and loyal. They might nap anywhere in the house but prefer their bed. 

     

    3. The Superman 

    Illustration of Superman-Dog Sleeping Positions

    The superman position is when your dog sleeps with legs straight out and puts its belly on the ground. This is one of the common and funny dog sleeping positions among playful or flexible dogs. They like to lay down with their legs stretched out, almost like a carpet. This position is also similar to dog sploot or frog dog position where the legs are slightly bent while here dog sleeps with legs straight out.

    Meaning: If your dog usually sleeps in this position, then it means you have a hyperactive dog who likes to play until its battery goes down. It also says that your dog is likely to play when the opportunity strikes. 

     

    4. The Lion’s Pose 

    Illustration of lion pose-Dog Sleeping Positions

    The lion position, also called the sphinx position, is when your dog sleeps with its head on the paws. This looks quite similar to a lion’s resting pose. It is a comfortable position for dogs as they tend to fall asleep quickly. Dogs also opt for this position when they are in need of a quick nap. This can also be dog sleeping positions when sick as they just want to lie down.

    Meaning: Your dog is alert while resting and will pounce when the time comes. Dogs who prefer the lion’s pose are devoted and protective. They’ll typically sleep by your foot. 

     

    5. The Cuddler Bug 

    Illustration of Cuddler Bug-Dog Sleeping Positions

    If your dog likes to sleep with you, you’ve got a cuddler. Most dogs find it comforting to sleep with their owners. They might sleep just next to you or on you. It doesn’t matter, they want to sleep with you in any way possible. Simply adorable! 

    Meaning: It is a sure sign of love, bond, and affection. Your dog wants to be close to you. Its world practically revolves around you. These types of dogs are affectionate and loving and will be there for you whenever you need them. 

     

    6. The Burrower 

    Illustration of Burrower -Dog Sleeping Positions

    If you notice your dog prefers to sleep under blankets, clothes, or with pillows, then o boy, you’ve got yourself a burrower dog. These types of dogs usually need to sleep with a blanket. Yes, you will have to buy your little one its own cozy blanket! 

    Meaning: Burrowers are usually affectionate and needy dogs. These dogs might need some extra support and care from you. 

     

    7. The Belly up 

    Illustration of Belly up-Dog Sleeping Positions

    When you find your dog sleeping on its back with its legs in the air, that’s the belly up position. This is also considered one of the cutest and vulnerable positions. 

    Meaning: The belly-up sleepers are very much comfortable, and they usually try to keep the environment cool. These types of dogs trust you and will doze off anywhere in the house.

     

    8. Back to Back 

    Illustration of Back To Back-Dog Sleeping Positions

    Similar to the cuddling sleeper, the dog’s back is aligned to yours or any other pet. This position reflects love and trust. It means they like to cuddle while

    sleeping. Meaning: This dog's sleeping position means intimacy. If your dog is sleeping like this, it means they are showing trust and affection. If a dog sleeps with his back facing you, it means you are the most trusted person for them.

    Now you know the meaning for the different dog sleeping positions! They take these cute dog poses as they hit the sheet.

     

    Dog Sleeping Behavior

    Just like you have your own sleep behavior, your little one does too. You might notice them snoring, barking, and even howling while fast asleep. Curious to know what it means? Take a look. 

    Barking 

    If you see your dog barking in sleep, howling, or squealing, then don’t worry. They might be having a dream, and it is entirely normal. On the other hand, your dog might be chasing something in the dream. 

    Snoring 

    Yes, dogs snore just like humans and it can be quite loud sometimes. There’s nothing abnormal in it. This might happen when your dog gets tired or suffers from short breaths. So, if you see your dog snoring, don’t panic. 

    Running Movement 

    If you find your dog acting like it is running in sleep, then be calm. It’s absolutely normal. Chances are your dog might be chasing something in the dreams. So, let your little one run wild in its dreams without any interruptions. 

    Digging 

    You might have noticed that your dog digs before laying down for sleep. This happens because they clean the area before sitting. This is a common habit found in wild animals as they are not habitual of sleeping in a bed. 

    Circling 

    Another common habit you might have observed in dogs is they circle before sitting. This is also a habit found in wild animals like wolves, coyotes, and wild dogs. They do this to clear the area. Sometimes these animals might sleep in tall grasses, so to suppress them, they circle. It also helps in clearing the pests or insects present in the area. As an animal habit, dogs do this too.

    How Much Do Dogs Sleep?

    How long do dogs sleep? Well, it might surprise you, but dogs sleep all day long, approximately up to 14 hours! You might think we don’t sleep for such long durations so why do dogs sleep so much? Now, dogs don’t have anything else to do apart from play, eat, sleep, and win hearts with their cuteness. And, to be honest, their sleeping pattern is very different from humans. 

    Some dogs stay awake all night and sleep during the day. So, even if your furry baby spends half the day in bed, it’s completely normal. And, even when they are awake, they like loafing around, which means the dog laying down observes everything that’s happening around them. The average dog's sleep patterns includes; 

    • Puppies sleep for about 16-20 hours a day. Puppy sleeping hours change as they grow up. 
    • Large dogs sleep up to 18 hours a day. But the sleeping habit also depends on their daily routine, diet, and of course their health. 
    • Senior dogs sleep anywhere between 18-20 hours a day.
    • ​​Some breeds like Mastiff, Basset Hound, French bulldog, Pekingese, Chow chow, Greyhound, Saint Bernard, and Lhasa Apso sleep more than other dog breeds. 

    However, if you find your dog suddenly sleeping excessively, it is time to consult a vet.

    How Can You Help Your Dog to Get Better Sleep?

    While your pooch might love to sleep throughout the day, it could be problematic for you at night when he’ll want nothing but to play. So, there are a few things you can try to ensure both you and your little one enjoy a deep slumber at night. Take a look. 

    • Walk It Out: Active dogs love to go for walks and spend their energy playing. Making sure your dog gets a healthy, playful time during the day will help your dog to get better sleep. You must walk your dog at least for 20 minutes in the morning and 20 minutes in the evening.
    • Timely Meals: It is a known fact that a full tummy means good sleep. The same is the case with dogs. Setting up mealtime for your dogs will help them to function accordingly. Evening meal timings should be between 7-8 pm this way you could take them for a walk before sleep. 
    • Sleep Timings: Instead of lazing around all day, you could set a full-day schedule where you take out time for your morning and evening walks. Some physical activities with your dog would be a great way to spend his energy, and eventually, they will pick up a time for sleep. 
    • Switch of the lights: Just like humans, dogs get used to a sleep routine too. So, switching off the lights and ensuring the temperature remains cool will ensure they are fast asleep. 
    • Keep him clean: If he is dirty or has fleas, it can lead to scratching, which can keep him up. So, regular baths are important.
    • Soothing music: Classical music is known to relax dogs. So, you can try playing some soothing music to relax your little one.

    Have You Tried a Dog Bed? We all know that sleep is comfort. If you want your dog to sleep peacefully, then try giving them a cozy dog bed. Sleeping in its own bed will help your dog to find its comfy sleeping spot.

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