Why Do Dogs Cry in Their Sleep? 4 Expert-Reviewed Reasons

Why Do Dogs Cry in Their Sleep? 4 Expert-Reviewed Reasons

Have you ever watched your dog snuggle up for a nap only to be startled by their sudden whining or crying?

This common behavior can be puzzling, especially if it’s your first time witnessing it.

Understanding why dogs cry in their sleep can help ease your concerns and ensure your furry friend is healthy.

1. They’re Dreaming

The primary reason dogs cry in their sleep is dreaming. Dogs, like humans, experience sleep stages, including REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, where dreaming occurs. During this phase, their brain activity resembles that of dreaming humans.

Larger dogs generally have longer REM periods, while smaller breeds may have shorter but more frequent REM cycles.

This means smaller dogs might dream more often. Though we can’t confirm dog dreams with certainty, brain wave patterns during REM suggest that they do dream.

2. They’re Uncomfortable

Sometimes, your dog’s crying during sleep could be due to physical discomfort. Dogs can experience muscle cramps, aches, or even conditions like congestive heart failure or acid reflux while lying down.

If your pup seems distressed while sleeping, check if they are actually awake. If discomfort persists, consult your vet to address potential underlying issues.

3. They’re Aging

As dogs age, their bodies undergo various changes that might affect their sleep. Older dogs can suffer from joint pain or cognitive issues, such as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCDS), similar to Alzheimer’s in humans.

CCDS can disrupt a dog’s sleep cycle, reducing REM and non-REM sleep. If your senior dog appears restless or has disrupted sleep patterns, it may be related to aging or cognitive decline.

4. They Have a Health Condition

Certain health conditions might cause sleep crying in dogs. For instance, seizures, although more common when a dog is awake, can also occur during sleep.

If your dog appears disoriented upon waking, or exhibits symptoms like drooling or incontinence, seizures could be a factor.

Documenting these episodes and consulting your veterinarian can help in diagnosing and treating potential health problems.

Should You Wake a Dog Crying in Their Sleep?

If your dog seems to be having a nightmare, you might wonder if waking them is advisable.

Avoid waking your dog during a dream, as this can disrupt their sleep cycle and potentially cause stress.

Sudden awakenings can also startle them, leading to unintended reactions.

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

While occasional sleep crying is usually not alarming, it’s essential to monitor your dog for any unusual signs.

If sleep crying is accompanied by excessive drooling, abnormal breathing, or trembling, or if your dog displays unusual behavior while awake, a vet visit might be necessary.

Keep an eye on your dog’s overall behavior and consult a vet if you notice any new or concerning symptoms.

Final Thoughts

In most cases, sleep crying is simply a sign that your dog is dreaming. If your dog is otherwise healthy and doesn’t show signs of distress when awake, there’s likely no cause for concern.

Ensuring your dog’s sleep environment is comfortable and addressing any health issues promptly will help maintain their well-being.

For more information on dog health and behavior, check out this resource.