My Dog Is Jumpy & Falling Asleep While Standing

Dogs sometimes fall asleep standing up, and there is usually little cause for alarm. But a change in your dog's behavior could be caused by an underlying medical condition or illness. If you notice your dog has become more nervous or confused or it seems sleepier than usual, you may need to seek vet care for your pet.

  1. Lyme Disease

    • Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by ticks. In addition to acting sleepier than usual, your pet may appear confused and nervous. The dog may refuse to eat, and its joints may swell. If untreated Lyme disease can cause the kidneys and heart to fail. If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, seek veterinary care for it immediately.

    Addison's Disease

    • Addison's disease is an illness that affects female dogs more often than males, and it affects the adrenal glands located in the kidney. A dog with Addison's may appear sleeper than usual. The dog may also seem nervous and confused or lack coordination. It may not eat, but drink water in excess. Seek vet care for your dog if you notice these symptoms. Addison's can be managed with medication if caught early enough.

    Enlarged Spleen

    • There are a wide variety of conditions that can cause a dog's spleen to become enlarged. The dog may appear weak and uncomfortable, or it might fidget when attempting to participate in its normal activities. Make an appointment to have your dog checked if you notice these types of behaviors.

    Narcolepsy

    • Even healthy dogs sleep quite frequently. But if the napping appears to be excessive and your dog falls asleep very abruptly, is sleeping for lengthy periods of time during the day, or is difficult to wake your dog once it falls asleep, it could be suffering from narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is not life threatening, and can easily be managed with medication.