Dogs Sleep in Some of the Funniest Positions
We’ve all seen our dogs curled up in the oddest sleeping positions. Legs sticking straight up in the air, bum in the face, sprawled out taking up the whole bed – dogs sure know how to make us laugh even when fast asleep. Though we might find their sleeping positions silly or comical, there’s often meaning behind the positions dogs take. Understanding why dogs sleep in certain positions can provide insight into their health, comfort, and personality.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common (and funny) sleeping positions dogs take, what they mean, and tips for ensuring your pup gets the best sleep possible. Who knows – you may just gain a better understanding of your dog’s sleeping quirks and patterns after reading. One thing’s for sure – you’ll walk away with plenty of laughs and puppy cuteness!
Reasons Dogs Prop Their Heads While Sleeping
One of the main reasons dogs prop their heads up while sleeping is because their supporting head muscles relax when they are asleep. According to Purina, when dogs fall into a deep sleep, the muscles in their head and neck relax which can cause their head to fall to the side or even backwards. Propping their head up on a pillow, bed, or even their own paws helps provide support and prevents their head from rolling as they sleep.
Dogs also don’t have the ability to move their heads from side to side as easily as humans do. So propping their head up can help them keep their airway open and unobstructed as they sleep according to Dreams. This is especially important for breeds with shorter snouts which already have more restricted airways.
Health Benefits
One reason dogs may prop their heads up while sleeping is to help keep their airways open. By elevating their heads, dogs are able to maintain airflow through their trachea and prevent their soft palate from obstructing their airway. This head and neck position can be especially beneficial for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers who are prone to respiratory issues. Propping the head up takes pressure off the windpipe and may help prevent snoring, wheezing, and other breathing problems during sleep. According to one source, “If your dog is elevating his or her head during sleep, it could be a sign that they’re having difficulty breathing.” This sleeping position can provide health benefits by allowing airways to remain open.
Source: https://www.newtonbaby.com/blogs/hush/dog-sleep
Common Dog Sleeping Positions
Dogs have a few common sleeping positions. Here are some of the most popular:
On back: When dogs sleep on their back with their belly exposed and paws up, this shows they feel safe and secure. According to PetMD, back sleeping “indicates contentment, trust, and feeling safe.” It’s one of the most comfortable sleeping positions for dogs.
On side: Sleeping on their side with legs extended is the most common position for dogs, similar to how people sleep. According to Casper, side sleeping allows dogs to easily curl up when cold or stretch out when hot.
Curled up: Dogs may sleep curled up with their paws tucked in and tail wrapped around their body. This conserves heat and shows they are trying to comfort themselves, according to Nectar Sleep. It’s common in cold weather or if a dog is anxious.
Breeds Prone to Propped Head Sleeping
Certain breeds of dogs are more likely to sleep with their heads propped up due to their anatomical structure. Brachycephalic breeds, which have short, wide skulls and compressed muzzles, often find it easier to breathe when sleeping in an elevated position. Breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and Boxers frequently sleep with their heads propped up to open their airways and allow for easier breathing.
According to https://www.dreams.co.uk/sleep-matters-club/dog-sleeping-positions, English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs commonly sleep with their heads propped up due to their shortened airways and snouts. The elevated head position allows them to breathe more easily while asleep. Similarly, Pugs often sleep with their heads resting on top of something due to their flat-faced structure.
Brachycephalic breeds can develop breathing issues like sleep apnea, making the propped up sleep position more comfortable for them. Owners of these breeds should monitor their dog’s sleep habits and look for signs of respiratory distress. Providing padded beds with bolsters or pillows can allow brachycephalic dogs to prop their heads up more easily.
When to Be Concerned
While resting with their head propped up can be perfectly normal for dogs, there are some instances when it could indicate an underlying health issue. If your dog suddenly starts frequently sleeping in this position, or if they excessively prop their head up while resting, it may be a sign of a medical problem.
Some potential reasons your dog may start prolifically propping their head up while sleeping include:
- Respiratory issues like kennel cough or pneumonia, which make it difficult for them to breathe when lying flat
- Heart conditions like an enlarged heart, which can cause breathing difficulties
- Nasal passage blockages or obstructions from disease, polyps, tumors or foreign objects lodged in the nose
- Dental infections like an abscessed tooth, which can cause facial pain or discomfort
- Neck or spine injuries or degenerative conditions like arthritis or intervertebral disc disease, which may make it uncomfortable to lay their head flat
If your dog is propping their head up much more than normal, take note of any other signs like coughing, labored breathing, lack of appetite or lethargy. Contact your veterinarian if the new head propping is excessive or accompanies other abnormalities, as it often indicates an underlying condition requiring treatment.
Improving Your Dog’s Sleep
Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for your dog’s health and wellbeing. There are several things you can do to help improve your dog’s sleep:
Provide an orthopedic dog bed. These beds are designed to properly support your dog’s joints and muscles while sleeping. The cushioning and contouring can help relieve pressure points and let your dog sleep comfortably through the night. Choose a bed large enough for your dog to stretch out.
Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise during the day. Dogs that get adequate physical and mental stimulation are more likely to sleep soundly at night. Take your dog for walks, play fetch, or provide interactive toys. Just be sure to avoid vigorous exercise right before bedtime.
Establish a soothing pre-bedtime routine like light grooming or a calming massage. This can help trigger drowsiness. You may also find relaxing music or white noise helps lull your dog to sleep.
Limit food and water intake close to bedtime to reduce bathroom runs. Make sure daytime meals are scheduled so your dog has time to digest before sleep.
Provide a quiet, comfortable sleeping area away from household commotion. Make sure it’s dark and cool enough for resting.
Talk to your vet if your senior dog is having trouble sleeping at night. Conditions like arthritis and cognitive dysfunction may disrupt sleep and require medical treatment.
Funny Sleeping Position Photos
As dog owners, we’ve all been there. You walk into the room and find your pup fast asleep in the funniest, most absurd sleeping position you’ve ever seen. Legs akimbo, head propped on something weird, body contorted in ways that can’t seem to be comfortable yet somehow are – dogs have a knack for napping in the goofiest ways.
Check out these hilarious photos of dogs passed out in the most ridiculous and funny sleeping positions:
This dog is fully committed to snoozing upside down with his legs straight up in the air. While it doesn’t seem like the most restful position, he looks pretty content!
This pup decided to sleep while still in a sitting position, using the couch arm for support. His crossed paws are too cute!
This bulldog is really committed to sleeping on his back with his legs stretched out as far as possible. Talk about deep sleep!
Dogs sure have some wacky ways of catching some zzz’s. But no matter how they contort their bodies, they always seem cozy and content once they drift off to dreamland.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dogs sleeping with their heads propped up is a common position that provides various health benefits for our canine companions. Propping their head up helps open their airways and improve breathing. It also helps alleviate symptoms of conditions like laryngeal paralysis and acid reflux. Certain breeds like pugs, bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are more prone to sleeping with their heads propped due to their distinct head shapes and breathing issues. While usually harmless, head propping when combined with other symptoms like difficulty breathing, gagging or restlessness may indicate an underlying health problem, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s overall condition. With some minor adjustments like providing orthopedic beds, keeping their sleeping area cool, and maintaining a healthy weight, you can help optimize your dog’s sleep. If your dog loves snoozing in goofy positions that make you laugh, capture those moments, but don’t disrupt their slumber. A good night’s sleep is vital for your dog’s health and happiness.
References
American Kennel Club. “Why Does My Dog…Sleep With His Head Hanging and Tilted?” https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-does-my-dog-sleep-with-his-head-hanging-and-tilted/. Accessed [date].
Dodman, Nicholas. “Why Does My Dog… Prop His Head When Sleeping?” VetStreet, June 7, 2013. https://vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/why-does-my-dog-prop-his-head-on-things-when-he-sleeps. Accessed [date].
Dugmore, Samantha. “Why Does My Dog Sleep with His Head Hanging Off the Bed?” Pets4Homes, January 11, 2018. https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/pet-advice/why-does-my-dog-sleep-with-his-head-hanging-off-the-bed.html. Accessed [date].
Mikkelson, Risë. “Why do dogs sleep at the foot of the bed?” Rover. https://www.rover.com/blog/dogs-sleep-foot-bed/. Accessed [date].
Perrin, Terri. “Why Does My Dog…Lean His Head Against Me?” American Kennel Club, December 22, 2020. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-does-my-dog-lean-his-head-against-me/. Accessed [date].
