Why is the sleeping dog twitching

Humans and dogs have formed strong attachments because these affectionate and loyal animals have become the dependable companions, helpers and protectors of man. Because dogs are much loved it would not be uncommon for a pet owner to view the pet as a member of the family. 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.

Dog owners have the tendency to hug and to kiss the pet thus they always want the dog to be around. Dogs are treated as babies therefore, an owner would constantly worry about the well being of the pet. Similar to a parent of a baby, a dog owner would immediately take the pet to a vet if something unusual is noticed in the pet.

Being considered as the baby of the family, it would not be surprising to see the family constantly observing the pet so that any unusual movement will be noticed. Dogs normally twitch when they sleep but pet parents not aware of this fact would worry and think that the twitching is a seizing episode. Sleeping dogs are known to twitch every few seconds and as most dog owners are aware of canine seizures, the twitching of the pet would cause the owner to worry.

Seizure and twitching are both involuntary movements. A seizure can be distinguished from switching as in seizing episodes, the dog would have stiffer movements. A seizing dog will be difficult to rouse as they will not respond to the voice of the master. A twitching dog on the other hand can be easily roused from sleep. The owner can simply tap the dog or call the dog’s name. A seizing dog, especially one that is suffering from cluster seizing episodes would need medical attention.

Just like their human friends, dogs too would dream when they are sleeping deeply. The dog acting up a dream may growl, snap at insects and may pedal the legs as if running. The dog may also twitch because similar to humans, dogs may be dreaming of falling from heights and the twitching is the effort made to abort the fall. The twitching movements of the pet should not worry the owner but there are cases when the dog would need attention as the movement can be a sign of a health concern. Twitching is a sign of canine distemper. An advance stage of canine distemper will have serious effects on the dog’s neurological system so that the pet will twitch continuously.

At Sarah’s Dogs you can find out more about why dogs twitch in their sleep as well as first aid for dogs.