Why Do Dogs Run In Their Sleep?
As a dog parent, there’s a very high chance you’ve observed them run in their sleep. You’re probably curious about what causes the sleeping legs and more. Well, wonder no more! Our team is going to outline the underlying behavior of sleep running and a few other sleep behaviors.
Common Reasons Why Sleeping Dogs Run in Their Sleep
Be assured that you don’t have to worry about these muscle twitches and the rapid eye movement you witness from your dog. Sleeping animals often wiggle around. Below, you will find six common reasons your dog might run in their sleep. Some of them will pertain to your beloved fur baby, others might not.
Dogs Dream
Dreaming is the single most common reason dogs run in their sleep. Dogs enter deep sleep just like humans do, and they also dream just like humans do. All through, probably not about the same things. We can guess that they’re dreaming about chasing squirrels, eating a fantastic meal, or playing in the pool, but we don’t know for sure. Whatever animal dreams are going on in your dog’s head, we are able to see the reactions for ourselves.
If your dog is sleeping quietly and then suddenly starts running or you notice other odd behaviors, don’t worry. This is perfectly normal, and there’s nothing to be concerned about. Even if it has never happened before, just know that it will pass, and your dog is just fine. It’s only a particularly active dream.
Being a Puppy
Puppies will typically sleep more deeply than adult dogs, and even more deeply than seniors. This is because they need more sleep, and that increases the amount of REM sleep that they get. REM sleep is when dogs (and people!) get dreams. This means that puppies have a lot more chance to dream than adult dogs.
You will more than likely notice your dog running, barking, and sniffing in their sleep a lot when they’re a puppy. This behavior might go away when they start growing up, but, for now, settle into an expectation of an active dreaming state from your little one.
Lots of Physical Exercise
If your dog spent the day in a particularly active way, they’re much more likely to stay active when they go to sleep. This is another very normal response from dogs and a typical reason they will continue running, even in their sleep. This association is found in dogs who are young and healthy, and who like to experience lots of activity. Even though the body rests, the mind remains incredibly active.
Mental Stimulation During Rem Sleep
Mental stimulation while your dog is in a REM sleep can cause them to whine, growl, bark, or run in their sleep. This is a sign that their mind is active and they’re having lively dreams. This is more true if your dog was extra tired when they went to sleep. That’s because they’re much more likely to enter a REM sleep when their nap is inspired by a particularly tired body and mind.
Running and Other Behaviors
Dogs often run, twitch, bark, or all 3 in their sleep. This means that they are dreaming. Dog brains are similarly structured to human brains, meaning they go through similar electrical patterns during the sleep cycle. This means dogs also go through the REM cycle.
Sleep Position
You may wonder why your dog curls into a ball when they lie down or sleep. This behavior has been known as an evolutionary holdover from their ancestors. Wolves and wild dogs curl up to protect their vulnerable organs from attack. Dogs that sleep on their backs are typically easy-going, well-socialized, and a far cry from their ancestors. Only 5-10% of dogs are comfortable sleeping on their back.
Digging and Circles
Another behavior is when dogs scratch the floor and turn in circles before lying down. This goes back to the instinct that compels dogs to curl up when they sleep. Their ancestors would dig in the ground to soften it and create a nest to lie in, and this offered protection.
Snoring
Most dogs can be heard snoring, often some more than others. Dogs snore for the same reason as humans, airway obstruction. Snoring is not often a problem to be concerned about. A dog that snores a lot while sleeping often has difficulty breathing while awake. This could have serious repercussions on their health because dogs rely on breathing rapidly to regulate their body temperature. If you have a chronic snorer, you should consult your vet to determine the cause.
Dogs sleep multiple times and for hours throughout the day. Observe them from time to time to see if you notice any of these behaviors.