It is common that dogs turn in circles before settling down to sleep. Although it may seem like a simple habit, this behavior has roots in the evolutionary history of dogs. Veterinarians and animal behavior experts studied this phenomenon and They found various reasons that go beyond comfort.
Understanding why your dog behaves this way is essential to knowing his instincts and needs. Find out all the details below.
Why does my dog toss and turn before sleeping?
Experts gave six different reasons why a dog may start tossing and turning before going to sleep.
1. Ancestral instinct: The roll that dogs perform before sleeping dates back to their wild ancestors. When circling, they seek to adopt a position that allows them to protect themselves from predators. This action helps them cover vulnerable areas, such as the chest and belly, giving them a feeling of security when resting.
2. Personal protection: By curling and turning, dogs protect themselves from outside threats. This behavior is an inheritance from wolves, who by doing this can feel safer and protected from dangers in their environment.
3. Temperature regulation: Turning before bed also helps dogs find the right temperature to rest. If they live outdoors, they may scratch the ground to find a cooler surface during heat or roll up to conserve heat in cold weather.
4. Territory marking: Dogs are very territorial animals. When they turn, they spread their scent on the bed or the place where they rest, making it clear that that space is theirs. This behavior ensures that other animals recognize their territory.
5. Search for comfort: Similar to how humans adjust our pillows, dogs toss and turn until they find the most comfortable sleeping position. This act allows them to adjust their bed or mat to their liking, ensuring a pleasant rest.
6. Anxiety management: In some cases, turning before sleeping can be a sign of anxiety. Dogs may have pent up energy that they haven’t burned during the day. Providing them with more exercise and play time can help reduce this behavior.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
