As a caregiver, you may often observe unique behaviors in your canine companions, especially during their sleep. One of the behaviors that might worry you is when your dog’s eyes roll back during sleep. You might wonder why this happens and if it’s something to be concerned about.
Let’s take a closer look at this phenomenon and uncover the reasons behind it.
The Science Behind Dogs’ Eye Movements
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s have a general understanding of a dog’s eye movement.
Dogs, like humans, have what’s known as Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. During REM sleep, a dog’s eyes move rapidly behind closed lids. This eye movement is a normal part of sleep and is associated with dreaming.
If your dog’s eyes are rolling back, it’s likely that they are in the REM stage of sleep, and there’s no need to worry.
Below is a table comparing the stages of sleep in humans and dogs:
| Stage | Humans | Dogs |
|---|---|---|
| REM | Active dreaming, rapid eye movement | Active dreaming, rapid eye movement |
| Non-REM | Deep, restful sleep | Deep, restful sleep |
Understanding Your Dog’s Sleep Patterns
Dogs have different sleep patterns than humans. They sleep more than we do, but their sleep is more fragmented.
- Dogs sleep 12 to 14 hours per day on average.
- Puppies and older dogs typically require more sleep.
- Dogs spend 10% to 12% of their sleeping time in REM, whereas humans spend 20% to 25%.
Understanding these patterns can help you gauge whether your dog’s eye-rolling is part of their typical sleep cycle or if it’s something more concerning.
When to Be Concerned
While it’s normal for dogs’ eyes to roll back during REM sleep, certain circumstances warrant immediate attention.
- If your dog’s eyes roll back while they are awake.
- If the eye-rolling is accompanied by other unusual symptoms such as loss of balance, abnormal behavior, or seizures.
In such cases, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately as these could be signs of a serious neurological issue.
How to Help Your Dog Sleep Better
As a caregiver, you want to ensure your dog gets a good night’s sleep. Here are some tips:
- Create a comfortable sleeping environment for your dog.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Ensure enough physical activity to tire them out before bedtime.
- Monitor their diet. Avoid feeding them right before sleep.
FAQ Section
1. Why do dogs’ eyes move while sleeping?
Dogs, like humans, have REM sleep where their eyes move rapidly behind closed lids. This is perfectly normal and is associated with dreaming.
2. Should I wake my dog if their eyes are rolling back in sleep?
No, if your dog’s eyes are rolling back during sleep, they are likely in the REM stage of sleep. It’s best not to disturb them.
3. What if my dog’s eyes roll back while they are awake?
If your dog’s eyes roll back while they are awake, it could be a sign of a neurological issue. Consult a veterinarian immediately.
4. How much sleep does a dog need?
On average, dogs sleep for 12 to 14 hours a day. However, this may increase for puppies and older dogs.
5. Can I improve my dog’s sleep?
Yes, by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleeping environment, ensuring enough physical activity, and monitoring their diet, you can help improve your dog’s sleep.
Remember, as a caregiver, your dog’s health and wellbeing are in your hands. While dogs’ eyes rolling back in sleep is typically normal, always stay vigilant for any signs of distress or discomfort.
