We consider dogs as man’s best friend, but we might be even more alike than we initially thought we were. There are some nights when it is easy to tell that your dog might have trouble sleeping after a tiring day.
A recent study conducted by Hungarian scientists found out that our dogs may not fall asleep very easily if they have just experienced something stressful. When comparing the results of canine sleep after both positive and negative experiences, they found clearly defined differences.
The researchers of the study discovered that if our canine friends recently underwent a somewhat bad experience, they may develop sleeping issues. The lucky dogs having positive experiences before trying to sleep did not.
The survey gathered two groups of dogs
One group had positive experiences; like cuddling and playing with their owner for a few minutes. The other group’s experience was being restricted to one place using a leash while being totally ignored by their owner.
The group of dogs that experienced fun activities had normal sleep behaviors. However, those poor dogs whose experience was negative did not sleep well. They had significant difficulty getting to sleep. Not only that, when they were finally able to get to sleep, the researchers observed that they appeared to have nightmares.
EEG monitors used during the study to observe how the brain was doing when the dogs were sleeping.
The group of stressed dogs were only able to enjoy a short time of deep sleep and were in a state of lighter REM sleep longer. REM sleep is important when dreaming. However, prolonged periods of REM can be harmful because it doesn’t allow our bodies to fully rest while sleeping.
EKGs and Heart Rate
The scientists also found a difference in the heart rates of the dogs during their sleep. They could identify whether the dog had a good or bad experience immediately prior to the test based on their heart rate.
The group of dogs with positive experiences such as playing with their owner had higher levels of oxytocin or the feel-good hormone. This hormone helps to relax the dog as well.
Despite this research, your dog having a few nights of difficulty sleeping does not cause immediate harmful effects to their health. However, prolonged and continual sleepless nights can result in both mental and physical health problems.
Which came first, the chicken or the egg?
Sometimes, it is challenging to determine which came first, the trouble sleeping or the health problem. Does the pain keep you awake or do you have pain because you did not get enough sleep? This is the same question for your dog. Sometimes a vet is needed to help you figure this out.
Age may play a role in sleep problems.
A young puppy in a new home and away from his mama for this first time may simply be anxious. When puppies first leave their mom and littermates they may need some help with learning to sleep alone. Allowing them to sleep with a cloth that contains mom”s scent may be all they need to settle down and sleep. Some dogs are comforted by a stuffed animal. https://excellentdogsclub.com/puppy-gets-stuff-from-his-toy-collection-before-he-goes-to-sleep/
Some young dogs suffer from narcolepsy. This is more common in certain breeds like Poodles, Labradors, and Doberman Pinschers. It is not fatal or painful. It is not always genetic and your vet will need to determine the actual cause before setting up a treatment plan.
An older dog may get up to urinate several times during the night. If they have heart disease, congestive heart failure may keep them awake at night as well.
Obesity and sleep may be enemies
An overweight and under-exercised dog often has trouble, sleeping poorly and frequently being tired. If they have developed diabetes because of this poor lifestyle, they may be up to urinate often.
Obstructive sleep apnea is not uncommon in obese dogs, especially in certain breeds. Dogs that snore heavily are at risk for this problem. Pugs, Boston Terriers, and English Bulldogs are among the most common breeds afflicted with OSA. This is because of their flat faces and a strong tendency to become obese.
Your Dog Might Have Trouble Sleeping After a Tiring Day Due to Other Irritating Issues That Disrupt Sleep
Fleas and allergies can irritate a dog enough to keep them from sleeping well. So can stress, anxiety and having too much energy without an opportunity to work it off. Daily exercise is very important.
Canine research has determined the effects of a dog’s sleeping habits on his health, both mental and physical. It has also been shown that lack of sleep may eventually cause a dog to be more aggressive with other dogs and with people.
So, before going to sleep tonight, make sure that your dog is happy! Both of you deserve to get that much needed good night’s sleep.
Sleep tight. Don’t let the bedbugs bite!
Photos courtesy of Pixabay