It’s nightime and your pup nestles snuggly in his bed, rolled up tight like a drum. It’s a common slumber position for dogs, but why? Wouldn’t it be more comfortable to stretch out while catching some shut-eye?
Well, yes, but there are two valid reasons why your canine rolls up in a ball to snooze – and they both relate to evolution.
Keeping Cozy
When dogs sleep in the wild, especially where it’s cold, they’ll dig a nest and curl up into it. This gives them warmth – tucking into a ball conserves body heat. It also protects their most vulnerable organs in the abdomen from would-be predators.
So if your pooch sprawls out to nap – instead of curling up – he’s either hot or he feels very safe in his environment.
Creating Security
If a dog is in unfamiliar territory, he will revert back to the instinct-based, curled-up sleep position.
For this reason, whenever you bring a new pup home, you’ll want to give him enough space accimilate to his foreign surroundings.
Another tip is to consider getting him a blanket. “This way, he can ‘dig’ a nest with the bedding material before he lies down instead of digging a place to nowhere on your carpet or couch.
Know More About Your Dog’s Behavior at Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Thanks: http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/why-does-my-dog-curl-up-in-a-ball-when-he-sleeps