Why Do Dogs Sleep on Their Backs? It Might Surprise You!

Dogs do all sorts of strange things, like rolling in poop or sniffing everything they come across on their daily walks. The way your dog sleeps is all about what makes them the most comfortable.

It may seem like a vulnerable position when you see your dog sleeping on their back, but they’re smart animals and wouldn’t put themselves in an uncomfortable position. So why do dogs sleep on their backs?

Dogs sleep in many positions, but sleeping on their back with their tongue lolling out of their mouth is a very popular position. Watching your dog snoring and completely relaxed while they sleep on their back is enough to give pet parents all the feels.

If you’ve ever wondered about common sleeping positions and why your dog prefers back sleeping, then you’ve come to the right place!

Read on to learn all about dogs’ sleeping habits and what it means when our furry friends choose to fall asleep on their backs.

History of Back Sleeping in Dogs

Domestic dogs sure can find a strange position to sleep in sometimes, but it’s all about what’s most comfortable for them. Back when dogs ran wild, they often slept curled into a ball. Many animals sleep this way because it’s an instinctual response meant to protect themselves from predators out in the wild.

Have you ever watched your dog sleep and wondered whether they were comfortable in a position with their vulnerable parts on display? Well, take this vulnerable display as an act of trust because that’s really what it boils down to.

Domestic dogs still have ingrained instincts that influence their behavior. When meeting another dog, your pup may roll onto their back as an act of submission. Seeing your dog’s stomach exposed shows the deep level of trust your pup has for you and means the dog feels safe.

Those instincts will lead to puppies mostly sleeping curled up, but adult dogs will often sleep on their backs. Other dogs, like Pugs and Boxers, are more likely to sleep on their belly because flat-faced breeds can’t breathe as comfortably while sleeping on their backs.

Why Do Dogs Sleep on Their Backs?

There are a few reasons dogs sleep on their backs. While this sleep position is one of the most popular, it’s not the only common sleeping position your furry friend will choose.

Most dogs lay on their back to sleep because it helps lower their body temperature. Some dogs sleep on their backs with their legs extended and paw pads pointing up, and this is because they exchange heat through their paws.

Lying this way allows heat to seep out of their body as the cool air hits their pads, so your dog cools down.

Why Do Dogs Sleep On Their Backs To Stay Cool?

Keeping your dog cool can be a struggle, especially in hot, humid climates. A sleeping dog will choose whichever position keeps them comfortable, which is why many sleep on their backs. All canines have Merocrine sweat glands in their paws, and these sweat glands act similarly to ours.

Sleeping with their paws up in the cool air allows the heat to drain from your dog while they sleep. When you see your dog sleeping in this position, it could be a sign they’re feeling a little warm, so make sure there’s plenty of water available when they wake up!

Do All Dogs Sleep On Their Backs?

Not all pups choose this sleeping position when they rest. Your dog might sleep on their tummy with their paws pointing down, and their legs stretched and spread out. Many dog lovers affectionately refer to this as the superman position, which looks adorable and provides your pup with plenty of comfort.

Other sleeping positions still help cool your dog down because they often sleep with their back paws pointed up. This allows for the release of heat and keeps your dog cool as they sleep.

You’ll mostly see flat-faced dogs lying in the superman position. Pugs and other brachycephalic breeds don’t sleep on their backs because it’s uncomfortable for them. If your dog likes to curl up in a ball, then it’s likely they’re still getting plenty of airflow to all the necessary spots, so you shouldn’t need to worry about them overheating.

Is It Safe When Dogs Sleep On Their Backs?

Many pet owners find themselves worrying about their dog’s health, especially when they’re in a deep sleep. You shouldn’t have to worry about your dog’s sleeping habits because they’re very smart animals, and dogs lie in ways that keep them comfortable.

When your dog yawns and curls up on their dog bed or the couch, they’ll instinctively settle into a safe and comfortable position. Back sleeping is a common position, as is the superman pose. Other dogs curl up into adorable little balls to catch some shut-eye.

Unless you have older dogs and have noticed a sudden change in their sleep patterns, then you shouldn’t be concerned about how they fall asleep. Your dog knows what’s most comfortable, and they’ll let you know when they’re not feeling well and need a trip to the vet.

Why Do Dogs Rest on Their Backs?

Rolling onto their back isn’t just a comfortable sleeping position for dogs. It’s also one of their favorite positions for getting some attention! Puppies are more likely to jump around and get your attention by playing with you, but senior dogs don’t typically have the energy for that.

Resting on their back is the perfect position for your dog to tempt you into giving out some belly rubs and head pats. Giving your dog a belly rub while they rest in this position is an excellent way to show them affection and help them feel good!

What To Do When Your Dog Sleeps On Their Back?

When you find your dog sleeping, you should let them sleep! Dogs have the unique ability to look adorable no matter what position they’re in, and it’s very tempting to reach out and pet them while they sleep.

Giving your dog a belly rub or some gentle pats while they’re sleeping is a great way to deepen your bond, but try not to wake them if you can help it. It can be tough when you’ve got a side sleeper curled against you, and you need to get out of bed, but dogs need a lot of sleep!

Adult dogs sleep for 12-14 hours a day, while young puppies need 18-20 hours per day! Learning about your dog’s sleep cycle and body language will help you determine when they’re in a deep sleep and won’t be disturbed by a belly rub versus when you need to tread carefully.

Final Thoughts

Everyone wonders about the cute habits their dog has and the strange positions they put themselves in. Now you know all about why your dog sleeps on their back and the other cute positions you might see a dog sleep in.

Whether they sleep in your bed or a dog bed, dogs have a variety of sleeping positions, and each is designed for maximum comfort so they can get the rest they need. Feel free to give your dog a pat or two while they sleep on their back on your bed, but try not to wake your pup up. They need their beauty sleep so they can feel safe and drive you wild the next day!

Don’t forget to keep checking back with BarkingTalk for the latest information on dog products, behavior, and breeds!

Do you spend a lot of time outdoors with your dog? Then you might want to look at the best outdoor dog beds so they can sleep in any position comfortably!