Why Do Dogs Sleep With Legs Up in the Air?

Dogs sleeping with all four legs in the air gives the amusing appearance of an upturned table. This might seem strange to some, as dogs are usually seen sleeping in curled-up positions. If your pet sleeps on his back with legs up in the air, be happy that you keep a happy dog, as this is known to be the most comfortable sleeping position of dogs. This is a good sign as only a dog that feels secure takes this position, which cools their system and allows them a deep, relaxed sleep.

  1. Belly Cooling

    • In hot climates, dogs are usually seen panting, with their tongues hanging out of the mouth as they possess very few sweat glands (located in the paws). This position is another way of beating the heat. The furless belly region of the dog gets some cool air when it rests on its back with its legs in the air. This position is known to compensate for the insufficient body cooling mechanism in dogs.

    Relaxed Sleep

    • Dogs might sleep 12 to 13 hours a day, so one could say dogs spend half their lifetime sleeping. A dog usually curls in a ball while resting. This position is not very convenient or comfortable, as the dog's muscles remain tensed and it is quick to wake at the slightest sound. Contrary to this, lying on its back brings no tension to the dog's body and allows it to be relaxed and go into a deeper sleep mode.

    Safe Zone Position

    • Most dogs that live in the wild sleep only in the curled-ball position, or lie back to back with other members of the pack. Lying on their backs is common only among domesticated dogs who find their homes to be safe zones. Unlike dogs in the wild that constantly stay alert to attacks from predators and other dangers, pet dogs living inside homes face no threat to their security and take up a more care-free position.

    Dream Time

    • Dogs dream during the rapid-eye movement cycle of sleep. A dog has to be relaxed to get to the REM sleep mode. This funny-looking position brings it great relaxation and allows the dog to dream during the sleep. Many funny dream movements like kicking, pedaling, tail wagging, muffled cries and barks can be observed when the dog takes this sleeping posture.