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Dogs can’t express themselves with words, so it’s only natural to be curious about their behavior. While a veterinarian can help you address specific problems, observing the way your dog sleeps can tell you a lot about what they’re feeling. Below, there are a few common sleeping positions for dogs and insight into what these mean.

4 Sleeping Positions & What They Mean

1. Side Sleeping

Your veterinarian will tell you that a dog who sleeps regularly on their side in your presence is very trusting and comfortable with you. This position, which allows the dog to stretch their legs out, is the most vulnerable for them. It leaves the sensitive organs exposed, so the dog must have a great deal of trust with those in the area to take this position.

2. Back to Back

VeterinarianIf a dog is boarding at a vet clinic with other dogs, they might sleep back to back. At home, they may do the same with your other pets, or with you. In either situation, it means the same thing. The dog is feeling affectionate and is trying to bond with you, or with other animals. They’re being affectionate and also expressing trust.

3. Nose to Tail

There are a couple reasons your dog is curling up with their nose tucked under the tail. This is a common position for wolves and wild dogs because it helps them sleep with all of their vulnerable areas protected. This position also makes it easier for the animal to get up in an emergency. If the weather is colder, you may notice your dog will also sleep in this position to conserve body heat.

4. Laying on the Belly 

When a dog is laying on their belly, they’re not really getting the quality rest they need. This is because this position is used to keep the dog ready for action. If someone wants to play, they’re in the perfect position to pounce up and dive into action. This position is more common among young puppies, or with dogs in a pet boarding setting, where other dogs may want to play.

 

In some cases, a behavioral change, or other physical symptoms, may worry you and that’s the time to call a veterinarian. Offering two locations in Columbia, MORolling Hills Veterinary Hospital provides convenient pet care services to help you keep your dog healthy and happy. You can review their services online. Call for an appointment at (573) 449-7387 for their Buttonwood Drive office or (573) 449-3791 for their Keene Street office.

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