We’ve domesticated dogs so much that we often forget where they came from, and the fact that they’re ‘pack’ animals. We’re reminded of this every time we see two dogs getting along or exhibiting ‘pack’ behaviors around each other. For example, when they sleep back to back.
Apart from being incredibly cute, this is something a dog will only do with another member of what they consider to be their ‘pack,’ a dog they completely trust. At the end of the day, dogs look out for one another and will watch each other’s back, and sleep against each other’s back too.
The Belly Curl
This pose might look adorably cute, but it actually means that your dog is not getting a good night's sleep when it lies like this. We call this "the belly curl." Pretty similar to the Superman pose, but this time around - the dog's legs are completely straight - making it almost look like he is doing some planks.
The belly curl is when your dog sleeps on its belly with its paws underneath or out to the sides, and dogs can't reach REM sleep because their muscles aren't completely relaxed. Dogs with a more gentle and shy personality often sleep like this.
Curled Up Like a Fox
Another endearing position that dogs often assume is when they curl up into a compact ball, resembling a charming little fox. In this delightful posture, their paws tuck snugly beneath their body, and their tail wraps around, even reaching their face. Interestingly, this behavior is commonly associated with feeling cold.
Dogs instinctively adopt this curled-up stance as it aids in conserving their body heat. By compacting themselves tightly, they minimize the surface area exposed to the chilly air, allowing them to retain warmth more efficiently. If you spot your furry companion sleeping in this cozy position at home, a simple gesture of kindness would be to provide them with a soft blanket to further cocoon themselves in comfort and warmth.
When Your Dog Brings You a Gift
Just like this adorable little french bulldog in the picture below, we're sure your dog has brought you shoes, gifts, and, in less desirable situations, a dead animal, once or twice at least. If your dog does this, take it as the utmost sign of respect and reverence - they're actually trying to make you happy by gifting you something! How cute is that?!
Now you know, next time your dog struts proudly into the room with a dead animal in its mouth, just try and hide the grossed-out face and smile. Unless, of course, it is the neighbor's cat.
The Post-Bath Boost of Energy
Listen, we all feel refreshed after a shower or a dip in the pool, and the same certainly applies to members of the canine kingdom. Some dogs actually enjoy getting a bath, but it's definitely the exception to the rule. Usually, dogs can't wait to get out of the bath!
When your dog starts running like a mad animal after getting a bath, this obviously means they're not too fond of it. Dogs will also do this because being wet is an uncomfortable sensation to them, and they just want to dry off as quickly as possible and get their 'smell' back.