Dogs have some pretty strange behaviors that at times amuses pet owners. Generally, dogs would circle several times before lying down, curl up and settle down to sleep. Sleeping on their sides or sleeping on the stomach with front legs tucked and the hind legs stretched out are some of the sleeping positions of dogs. Some breeds are known to take the flying squirrel position when sleeping.
A dog that sleeps on its back with the legs up is another funny antic of the dog. Among the sleeping positions of dogs, this is certainly the funniest more so if the dog is dreaming and makes pedaling motions with its legs
That dogs are man’s best friend may be an over rated cliche but because of an affectionate nature, dogs really do form a strong bond with their human families. These most valued companions consistently aim to please the family thus it would not be unexpected if even when sleeping the dog would still want to entertain its people. A sleeping dog that takes on the over turned table position would be a cause of high spirits in the family.
This funny sleeping position though has other meanings. Dogs commonly sleep lying on their back when the weather is hot as by doing so, the belly that is less covered with fur is exposed to cooler air. Dogs do not have a very efficient cooling system as their very few sweat glands are mostly located on the pads of the feet. Thus in very hot weather a dog would loll its tongue to keep cool. By sleeping on its back the belly that is exposed to colder air would also cool the body.
Even when sleeping, the dog shows its affectionate nature. With the funny sleeping position, a dog can get what it always wants and that is to be petted and kissed by its human family. Sleeping on their back is the most comfortable sleeping position. Dogs would only assume this sleeping position when they feel safe and secure. Dogs don’t feel so secure when they sleep outdoors thus they are not seen sleeping on their back. Dogs that have to be alert sleep all curled up. This way the vital parts of the dog are protected from potential harm that can be caused by the dog’s enemies.
Sarah’s Dogs has more answers to why dogs sleep on their backs as well as information about first aid for dogs.
