Does My Dog Dream When Sleeping?
Have you ever wondered how you can tell that your dog can't talk? Have you ever observed your furry friend dreaming while they sleep and wished you could understand what they're chasing in their dreams?
It's fascinating to note that a dog's brain activity during sleep is strikingly similar to that of humans, making it reasonable to believe that they are indeed dreaming. Even though your dog can't verbalize their dreams, you can gain insight into their nocturnal adventures by observing their body language.
Deciphering Your Dog's Dream Language
Like humans, dogs have different stages of sleep: shortwave sleep (slowwave sleep) and rapid eye movement (REM). REM is often referred to as the "sleeping body," where the body is relaxed but the mind is active, and this is when dogs dream. Slowwave sleep is known as the "sleeping mind," where brain activity decreases, but the muscles are still present. It can be challenging to wake your dog during REM sleep, but they may be more easily roused from slowwave sleep.
Observe Your Dog's Eye Movements
Dogs typically start dreaming about 20 minutes after falling asleep. REM sleep is the most obvious sign that your dog is dreaming. If you watch closely, you might notice their eyes moving beneath their eyelids, as if they're seeing their dreams unfold in real life.
Watch Your Dog's Physical Movements
Naturally, dogs dream about typical activities, such as running, digging a hole, or chasing an imaginary burglar. Their body movements during dreams may reflect what's happening in their dreams. For instance, if they're running and/or chasing something in their dream, you might see their legs moving in a running motion. Your dog's movements may be gentle and intermittent, even if they seem to be "running." They may also have occasional muscle twitches, which won't last long and will quickly be followed by a more relaxed state.
Listen to Your Dog's Vocalizations
Your dog may make various noises while dreaming, such as barking, whining, or crying, depending on the content of their dream. These sounds are usually brief and rare and won't wake them from their dreams.
Notice Your Dog's Breathing Patterns
Your dog may breathe rapidly or hold their breath when dreaming, and their breathing may become shallow.
Avoid Suddenly Waking Your Dreaming Dog
Don't abruptly wake your dog from a dream. If you try to touch them, they may react negatively, trying to scratch or bite you. If your dog appears to be having a nightmare, gently call their name (without touching them) to wake them up and help them calm down.
Recognize the Signs of Seizures
At first glance, your dog's movements and vocalizations during a dream may seem alarming, but they could be signs of a seizure, not just an active dream. Identifying the signs of a seizure will help you determine if your dog is experiencing one or simply having a vivid dream.
During a seizure, your dog's body may become rigid, and they may start shaking severely or exhibit violent muscle movements. They may also begin to breathe heavily, possibly vomiting, urinating, or defecating. During a seizure, your dog's eyes may be open but unresponsive, and they may make loud, unconscious sounds like groans, growls, or screams. These sounds can be unsettling but are not signs of pain or sadness.
Unlike a dream, your dog may lose consciousness during a seizure, and they won't respond to your calls. After the seizure, they may appear confused and disoriented, which is different from waking up from a dream.
If your dog is having a seizure, stay calm and keep your distance from their head and mouth. Remove any objects, such as furniture, that they could injure themselves with. Even though they may be unconscious, speak in a soothing voice until the seizure ends. After the seizure, cool them down with a fan and call your veterinarian immediately. Seizures require immediate medical attention.
