Dogs can experience nightmares just like humans, with the causes ranging from stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences. Certain breeds, such as herding breeds, may be more prone to nightmares due to their high energy and active nature. During REM sleep, dogs may exhibit similar behaviour to when they’re awake, such as twitching, whining, or even crying out. REM sleep, or Rapid Eye Movement sleep, is a stage of sleep characterised by rapid eye movements, increased brain activity, and vivid dreaming. As a pet owner, it’s important to be aware of the signs of nightmares in dogs and take steps to help them.
What are the signs of a dog nightmare?
Some common signs of nightmares in dogs include twitching, whining, crying out, panting, pacing or restlessness, and appearing disoriented or confused. Traumatic events, such as a natural disaster, abuse, or abandonment, can also increase the likelihood of nightmares. According to a study by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, around 50% of dogs experience at least one nightmare a month.
What do dogs dream about?
It is not clear what dogs tend to dream about but it has been reported that they dream about their daily activities and experiences. They may dream about their owners, playing, going for a walk, or even chasing a ball. When it comes to nightmares, experts believe that dogs have nightmares similar to humans. Typically this can be nightmares of loss, bereavement, fear and serious injury.
How can you help your dog when having a nightmare?
To help a dog with nightmares, pet owners can create a calm and relaxing environment before bedtime, such as playing soft music, providing a comfortable bed or a treat, or consulting with a Vet or professional dog trainer. A change in diet or medication may also be recommended. Additionally, providing a sense of security and stability, such as a safe space and spending time with them, as well as plenty of exercise and playtime, can help to promote a more restful sleep in the long run.
It’s important to remember that each dog is unique and may respond differently to various methods. With patience and understanding, pet owners can help their furry friends have peaceful, restful sleep. If you notice that your dog is having nightmares, seek guidance from a Vet or professional dog trainer to identify the cause and develop a plan to address it. The key is to have perseverance and patience, as this may not be a quick fix for your furry friend.
