Cross Creek Animal Medical Centre

Small brown puppy with dark facial markings sleeping peacefully on a mat.

Do Dogs Dream?

Published: June 16, 2016 | Reviewed: June 16, 2016

Of course dogs dream.  If you\’ve ever noticed a sleeping dog have shallow, irregular breathing, followed by muscle twitching and eye movements behind closed eyelids, then your dog is dreaming.  The characteristics of sleeping and dreaming are very similar for both dogs and humans.  Dogs tend to get to dreaming much faster than people, typically within 20 minutes of dozing off.  What we don\’t know , is what do dogs dream about?  Running, playing, eating, fun times or serious times?  Perhaps someday, we will bet let in on the secret of doggie dreams.

Dr. Timothy D. Hodge Avatar

Veterinary medical information on this page was reviewed by Dr. Timothy D. Hodge, DVM, who is the owner and Chief Veterinary Officer of Cross Creek Animal Medical Centre. Dr. Hodge has been practicing veterinary medicine in the greater North Tampa region for more than 30 years and has experience across preventive medicine, dermatology, internal medicine, cardiology, and integrative and holistic veterinary care.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is educational and is not a substitute for an examination and individualized advice from your veterinarian.