Have you ever wondered does your dog dream? And if they do dream, what about? You’re not alone.
A lot of research has been conducted on the matter, so let’s explore the phenomena of dog dreams.
Do Dogs Dream?
You’re sitting on the sofa minding your own business when you hear a whimper – your dog is twitching on their bed, and you notice their eyes fluttering behind their lids. You worry momentarily about your dogs wellbeing until they suddenly go quiet, and you relax again.
This strange sleeping behaviour you’re witnessing is a dog dream.
You’re average dog spends 12-14 hours a day sleeping. Like humans, they dream.
Award winning veterinarian Dr Gary Richter says: “Dog brains are very similar to human brains on a structural level so their brainwaves and brain activity while sleeping are similar to humans.”
What Do Dogs Dream About?
Furthermore, an MIT study found that lab rats dream about their daytime activities.
When exploring their maze their brains exhibit unique activity, this same brain activity was present on occasions while they slept. This signals that they were dreaming about that experience.
The takeaway from this study was that more advanced animals like dogs and cats would also dream about what they experienced.
This means that dogs dream about all the things they experience in their lives as well. “While there is no scientific consensus, dogs most likely dream about everyday activities such as chasing birds, running after squirrels, or even interacting with you and other dogs.” says Richter.
They could be dreaming about their monthly BusterBox!
Do Dogs Have Nightmares?
Just like us, dogs also have the capacity to have nightmares.
They may replay back traumatic events they’ve experienced, or things that frighten them such as thunder, loud noises etc.
If you feel your dog is having a nightmare, gently wake them up and comfort them. However, if they are showing signs of aggression in a nightmare such as growling or barking, it’s best to let the nightmare run its course as if you wake them prematurely, they could snap involuntarily.
How To Know Your Dog Is Dreaming
Common signs your dog is dreaming include:
- Twitching
- Quivering
- Murmuring
- Sleepwalking
- Barking
- Growling
Final Bark
So there you have it, your dog dreams about their daily experiences.
Why not give your dog more lovely memories to dream about with our monthly BusterBox pressies?!
Check out our page to see all our fantastic fun toys, tasty treats and outstanding products for your new loved one to enjoy! We promise you won’t look back once the fun begins!
That rounds up this week’s BusterBox blog. Keep your eyes peeled for more fun, informative posts!
