What Do Dogs Dream About?

Have you ever watched your dog twitch, paddle their legs, or let out a little bark while they’re fast asleep? It’s one of the most endearing things a pet owner can witness—and it sparks the age-old question: What do dogs dream about?

The short answer is: a lot of the same things we do.

While we can’t ask dogs to describe their dreams, scientific research gives us fascinating insight into what might be going on behind those closed eyes. From chasing squirrels to snuggling with their favorite human, dogs are likely reliving snippets of their daily lives when they dream—and yes, you’re probably in many of those dreams.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what science says about canine dreaming, how it compares to human dreaming, and what your dog’s dream behaviors may reveal about their waking life.

Do Dogs Really Dream?

Yes, they absolutely do!

Dogs, like humans and many other mammals, go through different sleep stages, including REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement), the stage most closely associated with vivid dreams. During REM sleep, brain activity increases, and the body becomes relaxed but not fully still. This is often when you’ll see your dog’s paws twitching, ears flicking, or tail wagging—clear signs that their brain is active.

Researchers at MIT, particularly in a study involving rats, found that animals experience similar brainwave patterns during REM sleep as they do when awake. In the study, rats who had spent time running mazes showed identical brain activity while asleep, strongly suggesting they were dreaming about their recent activities.

Since dogs have more complex brains than rats—and exhibit similar sleep patterns—scientists believe dogs also dream about things they do during the day.

What Do Dogs Dream About?

Dogs likely dream about their daily experiences, just like we do.

That could include:

• Going for walks

• Playing with other dogs

• Running around in the yard

• Eating their favorite treats

• Visiting the dog park

• Interacting with people they love

And yes—you’re probably a star in many of their dreams.

Since dogs are deeply bonded with their humans, you likely play a major role in their emotional and mental landscape. If your dog’s tail is wagging or they’re softly barking in their sleep, they may be dreaming of you throwing the ball, giving them belly rubs, or just curling up next to them on the couch.

Some researchers, including Dr. Deirdre Barrett, a clinical and evolutionary psychologist at Harvard Medical School, believe that dogs may dream in a way that parallels human dreaming. Dr. Barrett suggests that since humans often dream about their daily interactions with loved ones, dogs likely do the same—meaning their dreams might be full of familiar faces, routines, and even strong emotional moments.

Do Dogs Have Nightmares?

Unfortunately, yes—dogs can have bad dreams too.

If your dog whimpers, growls, or appears distressed in their sleep, it’s possible they’re having a nightmare. Just like us, dogs process not only happy experiences but also stressful ones. A bad dream could be related to:

• A trip to the vet

• A loud noise like fireworks

• A stressful encounter with another animal

• A time they felt scared, alone, or threatened

Dogs who have experienced trauma—such as rescues or those with a history of abuse—may be more prone to intense or disturbing dreams. If your dog frequently appears frightened in their sleep, it might be helpful to speak with a veterinarian or behaviorist to ensure they’re not suffering from anxiety or past trauma.

How Often Do Dogs Dream?

The frequency of dreaming appears to vary by age, size, and breed.

• Puppies: Dream more often than adult dogs. Their brains are still developing, and sleep (especially REM sleep) plays a key role in memory formation and emotional growth.

• Small dogs: Tend to have more frequent but shorter dreams. For example, a toy poodle might dream every 10 minutes.

• Large dogs: Dream less frequently but have longer dreams. A Labrador Retriever may dream every 60–90 minutes, but those dreams might last 5–10 minutes or more.

Regardless of size or breed, nearly all dogs experience REM sleep and therefore have dreams.

Is It Okay to Wake a Dreaming Dog?

Generally, it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie. Even if your pup appears to be having a nightmare, waking them up suddenly can confuse or startle them—and possibly lead to a snap or bite, especially in groggy or fearful dogs.

If you feel the need to comfort your dog during a bad dream, try softly calling their name or gently making noise from a distance. This may help bring them out of the dream cycle without startling them.

Can You Tell What a Dog Is Dreaming About?

While we can’t read a dog’s mind, their sleep behaviors offer clues.

Some examples include:

• Paw twitching or running motions: They might be chasing something.

• Soft barks or whining: They may be dreaming of play, excitement, or mild stress.

• Tail wagging: A clear sign of a happy or exciting dream.

• Growling or snarling: Could be related to a fearful or defensive dream.

Keep in mind that each dog is unique. Some may be more animated sleepers, while others dream quietly.

Do Dogs Sleep and Dream Like Humans?

In many ways, yes. Dogs have similar sleep cycles to humans, alternating between REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and non-REM stages. However, their sleep patterns differ slightly:

• Dogs fall asleep faster than humans.

• They experience more REM cycles, but each one is shorter.

• Dogs are polyphasic sleepers, meaning they sleep in several short bursts throughout the day and night, rather than in one long stretch like most humans.

These differences mean that while dogs dream often, their dreams are shorter but potentially more frequent.

How to Support Healthy Sleep and Dreaming

Just like humans, dogs benefit from good sleep hygiene. To support restful sleep and pleasant dreams, consider the following tips:

• Give them a comfy bed in a quiet, safe place.

• Maintain a consistent daily routine, including regular feeding and walking times.

• Exercise them daily to reduce restlessness and promote deeper sleep.

• Offer mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, or play.

• Reduce household stress, such as loud noises or chaotic activity during rest times.

The better your dog sleeps, the more likely they are to have healthy, meaningful dreams—maybe even about you.

Final Thoughts

Dogs dream just like we do—about the people they love, the activities they enjoy, and the experiences that make up their daily lives. Whether it’s chasing a ball, barking at a squirrel, or cuddling on the couch, your dog’s dreams likely reflect the moments that bring them the most joy.

So the next time you see your dog twitching or wagging their tail in their sleep, take heart: they’re probably off on a little adventure in their dream world, and you just might be the star of the show.