Why Dogs Run in Sleep Understanding Canine Dream Behavior

All dog owners have probably witnessed their adorable pooch suddenly waking up from a nap. Whether it’s a quick twitch of a paw or a full-blown slumber, this behavior is both fascinating and heartwarming. But why do dogs run in their sleep? In addition to running, twitching, growling, barking and even making little yelps while napping is common. This behavior is much like humans talking or moving in their sleep.

Dreaming.

Just like us, our furry friends have dreams! A dog’s brain waves during sleep are strikingly similar to the brain waves we experience when we dream. In fact, dreaming is a healthy part of your pup’s brain activity, so it’s best to let them snooze quietly, even if they’re moving around.

For puppies, sleep can also lead to muscle twitching. If your pooch isn’t dreaming, then these twitches are likely a muscle issue and play an important role in exercising and strengthening muscles. If you want to know how to keep your dog’s coat healthy and avoid dander, check out our guide on how to get rid of dog dander.

However, you must keep an eye on your dog for signs of seizures. Although it’s rare, dogs can indeed have seizures while sleeping. You can usually tell the difference between sleepwalking and a seizure by the type of movement. If the convulsions seem stiff or the movements seem more violent, your dog may need medical attention.

Deep Sleep

Dogs sleep in two main stages: rapid eye movement (REM) and slow wave sleep. REM sleep is the deeper stage of sleep and the stage of dreaming. During this stage, your dog may respond to his dreams by moving his legs, whining or even barking – which is why dogs often “run” in their sleep.

If your dog seems to be sleeping like a professional napper, you may wonder if he’s sleeping too much. In fact, they may just like to snooze too much! Your dog’s sleep needs depend on their age, size and activity level.

Age

Older dogs will sleep more throughout the day due to their slower metabolism. Puppies also need extra sleep because sleep helps them grow and develop.

Size

Larger dogs need more rest than smaller dogs because their larger bodies use more energy.

Exercise

Dogs that exercise regularly are more likely to fall into a deep sleep and dream beautifully! For your dog to enjoy the best sleep possible, make sure they are getting enough mental and physical activity. Even during the cold season, indoor play can do wonders.

Creating a quiet environment in a cozy bed can also help your dog enjoy sweet dreams. And don’t forget, a little snack before bed or after waking up can make their day even better! At Zera, we believe that every puppy deserves a good night’s sleep and lots of beautiful dreams.

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