Does a Dog Trust You If They Sleep on You?
Does a Dog Trust You If They Sleep on You?
If your dog sleeps on you, it’s probably a sign they trust you. That’s because dogs are very vulnerable when they are asleep, and sleeping curled up next to you is a protective tactic.
But why does your dog sleep on you? Read on to learn more about the reasons behind this behavior.
It’s a sign of trust
Dogs who sleep on their owners’ backs indicate that they trust them and consider them a part of their pack. In the wild, dogs are naturally alert to threats and lay in a defensive position when sleeping.
They place their noses to the wind to pick up scents and their backs to other members of their pack to form a protective circle around them, writes VCA Animal Hospitals.
If you’ve built a deep, loving relationship with your dog, they may choose to sleep on your bed or on the couch for this same reason.
Your dog might also roll onto their belly when they feel comfortable enough to do so. This is a common sign of affection, and they often hope to get a belly rub from you!
Finally, you might notice your dog looking at you when they’re going to the bathroom. This is a normal behavior for most puppies, and it’s a sign that they trust you.
They’re a pack member
Dogs, wolves and other canines have a very developed social system. They have a definite hierarchy within their pack, with a dominant or "alpha" dog, followed by "betas" and finally "omegas."
The alpha dog and the betas lead the pack in hunting, protection, and other behaviors that benefit the entire group. The omegas are subservient to the alphas and follow their orders.
These rules are established and enforced by the Alpha and are essential to a healthy dog pack. Stronger natured dogs may be less likely to join a pack, but they still need the structure and leadership of an alpha.
As a dog owner, your role is to create the conditions that your dog needs to survive and thrive. This means you must be an effective Alpha/pack leader and provide the guidelines and rules your dog requires.
They’re looking for encouragement
The best way to figure out why your dog sleeps on you is to take a close look at their body language. They’re probably trying to communicate something with their big brown eyes.
Depending on your dog, they might also be attempting to tell you what they are up to by using their hips or pawing at your arm.
In general, dogs have a strong sense of security that they feel as part of their pack, which includes you and your family. A good example is their ability to sniff out a lost child or animal.
So, when you’re trying to figure out why your dog sleeps on top of you, it might be a good idea to give them their own designated sleeping space. That might mean a dog bed or even a crate. The important thing is to create a safe space where they can go to relax, rest and rejuvenate after a long day of work.
They’re feeling safe
If you’re ever woken up by a wagging bum, it may be your dog’s way of saying they are feeling comfortable and secure. They’re likely looking to cuddle and snuggle with you in order to feel relaxed and show you they are loved.
In the wild, dogs sleep in a defensive position that protects their chest and stomach from predators. When they lay on their side, this exposes these vulnerable areas to the outside world.
A dog sleeping on their back with their head pressed against your back is another sign they trust you. It indicates that they know you have their back and will be there for them if necessary.
In the wild, wolves and wild dogs sleep in small, confined areas with other pack members they trust to protect them from danger. Similarly, your pampered pooch would rather sleep next to you on the bed than anywhere else because you are their guardian.
