Humans and dogs have formed strong attachments because these affectionate and loyal animals have become the dependable companions, helpers and protectors of man. Humans have grown to love dogs because these animals that are considered as members of the family have become invaluable helpers and companions. The affection dogs bestow on the human family is fully reciprocated as it is not uncommon for pet owners to consider the dog as the baby of the family.
Dogs are kissed and cuddled and allowed to share the bed of the master. Because of the close attachment to the pet, owners would worry if something out of the ordinary is noticed in the pet. Pet parents would worry about the well being of the pet so that a pet noticed to be under the weather will be rushed to the vet.
Every little movement of the pet will be noticed by a loving pet parent because similar to a toddler, the dog will be constantly watched as well. A lot of dog owners may not know about twitching but because canine seizure is more common, the involuntary movement of the sleeping pet can be mistaken by the pet owner as a seizing episode. Twitching is a normal involuntary movement of a sleeping dog but because dog owners are more aware of canine seizure, the perfectly harmless movement would cause dog owners to worry.
Seizure and twitching are both involuntary movements. The difference though is that a seizing dog would have stiff movements. A seizing dog will be difficult to rouse as they will not respond to the voice of the master. Although in deep sleep; a dog that is twitching can be awakened easily. A pet owner may tap the dog or call the dog’s name. Twitching would not be harmful to dog but one that is seizing must be given appropriate attention.
Just like their human friends, dogs too would dream when they are sleeping deeply. A dreaming dog may pedal the legs as if running, snap the mouth at imaginary butterflies or twitch. The twitching dog may be dreaming of falling from heights. Twitching is normal in sleeping dogs but there are instances when a dog owner has to give attention to the twitching of the pet as it can be a symptom of a medical concern. Twitching is a sign of canine distemper. An advanced stage of distemper is one of the causes of twitching as the neurological system of the dog is severely affected.
At Sarah’s Dogs you can find out more about why dogs twitch in their sleep as well as first aid for dogs.
