Do you think you know everything about your pet? In fact, it is very likely that there are more things to decipher in relation to canine behavior. For example, have you noticed that there are different sleeping positions for dogs? Most dogs tend to adopt curious postures and, in many cases, comical.
If there is something that has not been completely clear to us humans, it is that, despite their reputation for being simple, bloodhounds are more eccentric than they appear to be. In fact, we consider cats to be much more complex animals in terms of attitudes, but the reality is that we still need to know a lot more about these cute and interesting companions. Today in Supercurioso you will be a little closer to expanding what you know about them.
Positions of dogs to sleep: know the meaning of each one
Although it may seem like an insignificant detail, sleeping positions of dogs say a lot about the health of our pets. In that sense, they accommodate depending on several factors, such as their state of health, the place where they lie down, the temperature, among others.
That is why you have to pay close attention to the meaning of canine body language, as well as the gestures or faces that dogs make. In this way, we will be able to get to know them much better and establish a type of communication with them so that they are as comfortable as possible, including their sleeping positions.
So what’s wrong with a dog lying on its back? Or, what happens if I fall asleep in a ball? Let’s discover some of his most frequent positions.
1. In the form of a ball or ball
Surely you have seen this among the sleeping positions of dogs. And it is that almost all dogs have in common that, at bedtime, they make a ball. And it seems logical to think that they do it because it is a comfortable position for them. When it’s time to take a nap, comfort is what really matters to all species, it is not just a human thing.
Yes, perhaps there is some “bedtime comfort” in the explanation for this canine behavior. An expert in the field, Dr Margaret Gruenan assistant professor of behavioral medicine at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, says this custom is rooted in evolution.
And what does evolution have to do with your dog rolling into a ball?? Well, a lot. According to Gruen:
“When dogs sleep in the wild, especially where it’s cold, they will dig a nest and curl up. This gives them heat: Rolling into a ball conserves body heat. Also protects its most vulnerable organs in the abdomen from possible predators.”
It means that more than one of the most common behaviors in dogs, It is a defense mechanism that comes from the wild ancestors of dogs. It has remained from generation to generation, even in puppies that live with all the warmth and protection that a home can provide.
2. Face down
Among the sleeping positions that dogs use the most is face down, especially after performing some high-intensity activity.
That means that when a dog sleeps on its stomach, most likely he is tired and sleep got the better of him. However, it is a position that is presented more in brachycephalic dogsthose that have a characteristically flattened snout and multiple folds on their face.
Breeds like bulldogs, pugs or pugs are more likely to adopt this position because it allows them to breathe better and condition their body.
3. Tummy up
Although it may seem awkward at first, the truth is that sleeping belly up is one of the most sought after curiosities of dogs. If you are wondering, why does my dog sleep on his back? Do not think that it can be a bad thing, quite the opposite. It means that he has no worries and is in a complete state of relaxation, demonstrating the confidence you have in your environment.
It is also a sign of well-being, since when any animal sleeps with its belly up, it is when they are most vulnerable by exposing their most sensitive parts. In the event that they are not comfortable, they would not be able to fall asleep that way.
4. Conventional position
Among the most frequent sleeping positions for dogs is their conventional posture, even becoming the most common. It is a mixture between the shape of a ball or ball and being upside down. Generally, they use it to take short naps.
On the other hand, it is a posture that allows them to be relaxed, but also alert to the environment around them. They may use it when you leave the house and he is alone or has finished eating.
5. Sideways
This is one of the most common sleeping positions for dogs, as well as being one of the best they can use. sleeping on the side, your pets will be able to completely relax, enjoying extensive comfort. Likewise, it reflects that he does not have any type of problem with the environment in which he finds himself.
On the other hand, in terms of health and well-being, it is one of the positions for dogs to sleep that best allows them to repair their sleep and rest. That is, you will be able to replenish your energies completely.
6. Other sleeping positions for dogs
The positions mentioned are the most common, although it does not mean that it is a general rule. Namely, dogs can adopt other positions when they sleep while they are in search of their own comfort. At times they make unexpected movements, but in many cases it is attributed to dogs dreaming.
Also, it is worth noting that some positions may not have a special meaning. Simply, each dog is different and seeks the best position taking into account its comfort, just as it happens with humans. That is, some pets can be relaxed with their heads hanging, or even sitting. The truth is that it will depend on several factors.
Now that you know the different sleeping positions for dogs, you can pay more attention to them and identify if they are comfortable or not. In either case, chances are if they’re uncomfortable or unwell, they’ll let you know in other ways. If you know some curious positions that we should know, leave them in the comments!