Common Sleep Disorders in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Canines suffering from sleep disorders may exhibit symptoms such as whining, crying, or frequent waking during the night. They might also appear more disoriented during the day or struggle to perform routine tasks.
Lack of sleep in dogs can lead to an accumulation of stress hormones, making them potentially more aggressive or prone to other behavioral issues. Additionally, insufficient sleep can weaken their immune system, increasing the risk of infections.
Here are four common sleep disorders in dogs that every pet owner should be aware of:
1. Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a neurological sleep disorder primarily affecting young dogs and is often caused by a genetic condition. This condition can affect breeds like Dobermans, Poodles, and Labrador Retrievers. Other causes include obesity, lack of exercise, and immune system dysfunction.
Dogs with narcolepsy may suddenly collapse and fall asleep, often after periods of excitement or physical activity, and quickly slip into a state of sleep.
While narcolepsy is not lifethreatening or painful, it is incurable. However, it can be managed by identifying and minimizing triggers. Veterinarians may prescribe medications to reduce hyperactivity, stimulate wakefulness, or control the frequency and duration of narcoleptic episodes.
2. Insomnia
Insomnia is rare in dogs and often indicates another underlying health issue. It can be caused by physical problems such as pain (like arthritis or injury), itching (such as from fleas), or increased urination (such as in kidney disease or diabetes).
Stress, anxiety, and suppressed energy can also lead to insomnia. In older dogs, cognitive dysfunction caused by brain aging can disrupt normal sleep patterns, resulting in insomnia.
Veterinarians can identify the underlying issues and prescribe appropriate treatments. For instance, painkillers can alleviate arthritis pain, making sleep more comfortable.
3. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is rare in dogs but is more common in overweight dogs and breeds with flat faces, such as English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Pugs.
In cases of sleep apnea, excess body fat or abnormal breathing structures can temporarily collapse or narrow the airway, leading to persistent sleep interruptions that leave dogs feeling tired and listless during the day.
Longterm snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, and untreated sleep apnea can be lifethreatening. If your dog's snoring is loud and they frequently wake up due to breathing pauses, seek veterinary care immediately.
4. REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
This is the most common sleep behavior disorder, characterized by the loss of muscle tone during sleep, which is replaced by movements that correspond to dreams. This means dogs may engage in physical activity during sleep, and for some, this behavior can become extreme or violent.
If you notice your dog has this sleep disorder, it's essential to consult a veterinarian promptly, as medication is the only treatment available for this condition.