Why does your dog twitch, whimper or howl while asleep?
Everything you need to know about why your dog might twitch, whimper or howl while asleep.
Just like us, our dogs can have some peculiar sleeping habits. Noticing your pup twitching, whimpering, or howling in their sleep can be alarming. But it’s usually normal doggy behaviour, and nothing to worry about.
Twitching, whimpering, or howling in sleep
Your pooch making noises while sleeping shouldn’t usually be a cause for concern. As with humans, it can be part of getting some good shut-eye.
But if your dog twitches when they’re awake, it could signal a medical condition like seizures, itchy skin, or arthritis. If they twitch and it’s unrelated to sleep, speak to your vet for more advice.
Top tip: taking a video of your dog twitching can help your vet get a better idea of what they might be going through.
If you notice your dog whimpering or howling when they’re awake, it could be a sign that they’re worried about something. Our guide on signs of stress can help you learn more about when your dog may be worried or stressed.
You can also contact our Behaviour Support Line for free expert advice if you’re worried about your dog being anxious or worried.
Should you wake up your dog if they’re twitching in their sleep?
No, let sleeping dogs lie. Avoid waking your dog when they’re asleep or disturbing them in their bed.
Bear in mind, if you share your bed with your furry friend, that they may have a different sleeping pattern to you. If your dog’s sleep behaviours are disturbing your sleep, encourage them to sleep in their own bed.
What do dogs dream about when they’re whimpering?
As our four-legged friends can’t talk to us, it’s hard to know what they might dream about. And there are no studies yet to tell us. We’d like to think it’s all long walks and tasty treats, but it’s possible they have the odd bad dream too.
Should you comfort a dreaming dog, or wake them if they’re having a nightmare?
If your dog is dreaming, leave them to it. But if they wake up from a dream and show signs of stress, give them some reassurance to ensure they feel relaxed and confident.
If you think your dog could be having a seizure rather than a bad dream, remove any nearby hazards like sharp objects. Call your vet right away.
Do dogs get annoyed when you wake them up?
How do you like it when someone wakes you from a cosy slumber? Nobody likes an alarm clock, and dogs are no different.
You should avoid waking your dog or disturbing them in their bed. Beds should be safe spaces for some alone time, without human interaction.
A woken dog may also feel startled and become worried or anxious, so it’s best to leave them to it. If they’re sleeping, then they likely need the rest.
If you do need to wake your dog, for example if they’re blocking a walkway, try to do so gently and slowly. Use subtle movement, low-level noise, or the smell of a tasty treat to gradually bring them around.
The bottom line
It’s normal for your dog to twitch or make noises in their sleep, particularly if they’re dreaming.
Speak to your vet if they’re doing it while awake, as it could signal a medical condition. Otherwise, just leave them to it. Our pup pals need the rest, so don’t refuse their snooze.
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