Many dog owners have probably woken up to the sounds of their pet crying in their sleep. This behavior can be baffling, but it has scientific and behavioral explanations that can help us grasp better to our four-legged friends.
Why do dogs cry while sleeping?
Dogs, like humans, go through different phases of sleep. The most important in terms of brain activity is the REM phase (Rapid Eye Movement), in which dreams occur. During this phase, it is common for dogs to move their legs, make sounds and even cry, as they are reviving experiences of the day.
According to studies such as those carried out by the american kennel club, the dogs they dream with activities they frequently do, such as running, playing or interacting with their owners. However, if they have been through experiences traumatic or stressful, these can be reflected in negative dreams that make them cry.
Factors that cause nocturnal crying in dogs
There are several factors that can trigger nocturnal crying in dogs. Understanding them will help us improve their rest and well-being.
- Stress and anxiety: Dogs who have experienced changes in their environment, such as moving or the arrival of a new member in the family, may feel anxious and reflect this stress in their dreams.
- Inappropriate temperature: If the dog is too cold or too hot, its sleep may be interrupted and it may cry.
- Noisy environment: Loud noises, such as storms or fireworks, can disrupt a dog's sleep and cause nightmares.
- Discomfort in your resting place: An uncomfortable bed or inadequate space can prevent your dog from getting a good night's sleep.
- Health problems: In some cases, crying may be related to pain or physical discomfort, so it is advisable to observe whether other symptoms are present.
Is it advisable to wake up the dog if it cries while sleeping?
While it may be tempting to wake a crying dog in his sleep, it's not always the best option. Al Waking him up abruptly could scare him and provoke an unexpected reaction, such as a bite.
Instead, it is best to observe it and make sure that he is not in danger. If the crying persists, we can gently approach him and call his name so that he feels safe and protected.
How to help your dog sleep better
To reduce your dog's nighttime crying episodes, you can follow some recommendations:
- Provide a suitable environment: Make sure your bed is comfortable and in a quiet place.
- Avoid stress factors: If your dog has recently gone through changes, try to provide security and stability.
- Daily exercise: A dog that expends energy during the day will rest better at night.
- Avoid loud noises: At night, try to minimize sounds that may disturb your sleep. rest.
- Consult the vet: If you notice that crying is persistent, it could be a symptom of pain or illness.
What to do if crying is frequent?
If your dog cries recurrently while sleeping, it is important to keep track of his comportamiento. Note the circumstances in which the crying occurs and if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as difficulty moving, loss of appetite or changes in your frame of mind.
In these cases, going to the vet is essential to rule out possible health problems or sleep disorders.
A dog that cries while sleeping is not always suffering, but it is important to make sure that he gets adequate, stress-free rest. By creating a calm environment, with a comfortable bed and a stable routine, we will reduce the chances of nightmares and improve his overall well-being.