Dogs communicate a lot through body language; even in their sleep. From belly-up stretches to tightly curled donuts, your dog’s favourite sleeping position reveals important clues about their emotional well-being, physical comfort, and health. Veterinary and behavioural experts have identified patterns in how dogs rest that reflect their mood, trust levels, and even health status. Here’s a detailed guide to the most common sleeping positions and what they tell you about your canine companion.

The Side Sleeper: Deep Trust and Relaxation

Your dog lies on their side, legs stretched out, sometimes with their belly partially exposed. This is a strong indicator of complete relaxation and trust. When a dog sleeps on its side, it exposes vital organs—a vulnerable act they only do when they feel safe and secure in their environment. It’s also one of the best positions for deep, restorative sleep. Side sleeping is often accompanied by twitching, kicking, or quiet vocalizations as your dog enters REM sleep—evidence of dreaming. For a side sleeper, the best bed is a memory foam or orthopedic bed like the Big Borky Orthopedic Dog Bed, with room to stretch out.

The Lion Pose (Sphinx): Light Rest, Ready to Move

The dog lies on their belly with head resting on their front paws, legs tucked underneath. This posture indicates your dog isn’t in a deep sleep. They’re resting lightly while remaining alert and ready to move if needed. It’s often seen in dogs who are guarding, uncertain about their surroundings, or simply pausing between bursts of activity. Common in new environments or among protective breeds. Dogs who sleep this way may be keeping an eye (or ear) on their family or surroundings. Best beds for these sleepers are flat mats or elevated cooling beds like the Coolaroo Elevated Knitted Fabric Cat & Dog Bed that offer a quick in-and-out surface.  

The Superman (Sploot): Playful Pause

Belly flat on the ground with front legs stretched forward and hind legs extended back behind them. This adorable position is especially common in puppies or high-energy dogs. It reflects a brief moment of rest when the dog is still in “play mode.” Even though they’re tired, they’re still ready to leap up at a moment’s notice. Splooting also helps dogs cool down by spreading their belly against a cool surface, especially after exercise. The best bed for these sleepers is a cooling, low-profile bed where dogs can stretch out and stay cool. Try a gel memory foam cooling mat or flat cushion bed like this FuzzYard LIFE Lounge Pet Mat that won’t restrict leg movement.

The Belly-Up: Trust and Thermoregulation

Your dog is sprawled out on their back, belly exposed, legs relaxed or in the air. This is the most vulnerable sleeping position and signals complete trust in the environment. It’s also a natural way for dogs to regulate their body temperature since the fur on their belly is thinner and their paws can release heat. Confident and well-socialized dogs often prefer this pose. However, as dogs age or experience spinal discomfort, they may avoid this position due to pressure on their back. The best bed for this position is one with a supportive mattress and open centre. We’d suggest the Zest Livings Bespoke Crafted Bed For Dogs & Cats (Snooze) which is made from a high-density non-sag foam for support with an open centre allowing your dog to find the most comfortable position to lie on.

The Donut (Curled-Up Ball): Caution or Cold

A tight curl with the nose near the tail and limbs tucked in. This compact shape helps conserve body heat and protect vital organs—an instinctive behaviour from their wild ancestors. Dogs that sleep this way may be feeling cautious, insecure, or simply trying to stay warm. If your dog usually sleeps sprawled out but suddenly switches to curling up tightly, it may indicate discomfort, pain, or illness. Select a high-walled donut bed to give your pup a sense of safety. A calming donut bed with raised sides or a covered bed like this Kashima Tonkotsu Ramen Noodles Bed For Dogs & Cats are great bedding options for shy or anxious dogs.

Cuddling or Burrowing: Seeking Comfort and Bonding

Your dog snuggles up against you, another pet, or burrows under blankets. Dogs are pack animals, and cuddling is a sign of deep affection, trust, and a desire for warmth or security. This behaviour reflects their social nature and desire to feel connected. This sleeping position is common with dogs who are feeling anxious or in need of extra reassurance. It’s also a favourite among dogs that were raised closely with humans or littermates. The best bed for a cuddler is a large bolster bed for co-sleeping with their littermates or humans. Try a large Big Borky Orthopedic Dog Bed, add the headrest and throw Big Borky Waterproof & Machine Washable Anti-Anxiety Throw Blanket.

Why Sleeping Positions Matter

Understanding your dog’s sleep habits goes beyond curiosity—it can help you detect changes in their health or emotional state early. Here are some key factors that influence sleep posture:

1. Temperature Regulation 
Dogs instinctively adjust their sleeping position to stay warm or cool down. Sprawled out positions (like Superman or belly-up) release body heat. Curled-up or burrowed positions help conserve warmth.

2. Health and Pain 
A sudden change in sleeping habits can point to underlying issues. Dogs with arthritis may avoid positions that put pressure on their joints. A dog in pain may choose more protective or guarded positions, like curling up. 

3. Emotional Security 
Confident dogs tend to sleep sprawled out or belly-up. Anxious dogs may curl up tightly or remain in semi-alert positions like the lion pose.

When to See a Vet

While most sleep positions are perfectly normal, you should keep an eye out for sudden or persistent changes in your dog’s sleeping style. These could be signs of pain or injury, anxiety or stress, or Illness (e.g., gastrointestinal discomfort, respiratory issues). If your dog seems restless, avoids their usual sleeping position, or appears uncomfortable while lying down, it’s worth discussing with your vet. Your dog’s sleeping position can be a meaningful form of communication. From trust and comfort to alertness and affection, each pose reveals a layer of your dog’s physical and emotional health. Pay attention to their sleeping patterns and you’ll be better equipped to support their health, happiness, and overall well-being.

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.