Just like humans, dogs experience various sleep stages, including rapid eye movement (REM) cycles, during which they are most likely to dream. While it's comforting to think of our pets chasing imaginary squirrels or playing with their favourite toy in their sleep, they can also experience night terrors just like we do.
Read on to learn more about canine dreams, what causes your pet's nighttime terrors, and our best tips on helping them get a more restful sleep.
What do dogs dream about?
Dogs, like humans, experience REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, a stage characterised by rapid eye movement and brain activity. During REM sleep, dreams are most likely to occur. Since dogs process the world differently from humans, their nightmares might be more straightforward yet equally distressing. Studies suggest they dream about familiar experiences and emotions. This could include:
- Happy memories: chasing squirrels in the park, cuddling with their favourite toy, or enjoying a delicious meal
- Daily activities: playing fetch, going for walks, or interacting with their humans
- Recent events: a trip to the vet might replay in their dreams, or a new training session could be revisited
What do dogs have nightmares about?
Not all canine dreams are filled with tail wags. Dogs can have nightmares just like humans. While we can't know for certain what they dream about, it's believed that their nightmares are influenced by their experiences and emotions. Here are some possible things dogs might have nightmares about:
- Traumatic past events: dogs who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment may relive these events while they sleep
- Separation anxiety: being left alone or separated from their owners can cause anxiety, potentially leading to distressing dreams
- Fears and phobias: loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, or even the vacuum cleaner could appear in their dreams
- Negative interactions: conflicts with other animals or humans might be replayed during sleep
- Pain or discomfort: physical or health issues might translate into disturbing dreams
- Loss of security: situations where they feel unsafe or threatened, such as being chased or confined
What do dogs dream about when they whimper?
Sometimes, a dog's whimpering during sleep might indicate a nightmare. Here's what you might observe:
- Physical signs: twitching paws, whimpering, whining or barking
- Disorientation: upon waking, your dog might seem confused or disoriented for a short while
When dogs whimper, twitch, or exhibit other physical signs during sleep, they are likely in the REM phase of their sleep cycle, which is associated with dreaming. If your dog is whimpering for several minutes, it could be a sign that they are experiencing an emotionally charged dream. While it's impossible to know exactly what your dog is dreaming about, the behaviour indicates that the dog is deeply involved in its dream scenario.
Does the dog's breed affect its dreams?
While there's no clear evidence to suggest a breed-specific link to what dogs dream about, certain breed traits might influence the experiences a dog dreams about. For instance, a hunting dog might dream about chasing prey, while a working dog might dream about performing tasks. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Terriers may have more active dreams as their daily routines are filled with mental and physical stimulation. These breeds might dream more vividly about chasing, hunting, or playing. On the other hand (or paw), more sedentary breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds may have less intense dreams.
However, any dog can have disturbed sleep, regardless of breed. Even dogs with seemingly calm temperaments can experience anxiety and stress, which could translate into nightmares.
Do dogs have nightmares about their owners?
Dogs form strong emotional bonds with their owners, so they may very well dream about them. While many of these dreams are likely positive, involving activities like playing or receiving treats, dogs can also have bad dreams about their owners. For example, if a dog has been accidentally stepped on or has had a negative training experience, they might relive that in their sleep as a nightmare. It’s also possible that dogs with separation anxiety have night terrors about being left alone or separated from their owners. This can be particularly distressing for them, as they rely on their human companions for security and comfort.
Is it bad to wake a dog having a nightmare?
While seeing your dog whimpering in their sleep might be distressing, abruptly waking them could be counterproductive. Disoriented and startled, your dog might react impulsively. It's best to let them naturally wake from the dream cycle.
If your dog frequently experiences nightmares, the best approach is to create a comforting and secure environment. Consider using a soothing voice or gently touching them to wake them. This can ensure you don't startle them and let them wake up more peacefully.
How can I help my dog have a better night's sleep?
Here are some things you can do to help your dog enjoy a peaceful night's sleep:
- Create a consistent sleep schedule
- Establish a regular bedtime and get-up time
- Provide a comfortable bed in a quiet, draft-free location
- Exercise your dog daily to tire them out
- Minimise stress and address potential stressors in your dog's environment, such as loud noises, new pets, or separation anxiety
- Maintain a calm environment and avoid stimulating activities like playtime near bedtime
While occasional nightmares are normal, frequent nightmares could indicate an underlying health issue or anxiety. Consult your vet if you're concerned about your dog's sleep patterns.
While we may never fully know what dogs are dreaming about, we can create a safe and comforting environment to help them sleep better. By paying attention to their behaviour and working to reduce anxiety, we can ensure our furry friends have sweet dreams more often than not.
