Ever caught your dog ‘watching’ you while they nap? If so, it must have felt a little odd to you. You may have even wondered if they were truly sleeping or just pretending.
You’ll be surprised to know that in reality, some dogs can sleep with their eyes partly open. It’s completely normal for certain breeds. But that’s for a few breeds. Sometimes, it can be an alarming situation, for other breeds.
So, what dog breeds sleep with their open? That’s what this article is about. You’ll also learn about the reason for this dog’s sleep behavior.
Let’s lift the veil!
Why do Dogs Sleep with their Eyes Open?
Before we start listing the names of those dogs, it’s important to understand what causes this peculiar sleeping style.
First, it may be due to an instinct from their wild ancestors. That means staying partly alert helped them spot danger quickly. Even pets keep this trait. They stay aware of sounds or movements while resting. All that is to be ready to react if needed.
The second reason is dog REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement). In this phase, pups twitch or move their eyes under partly closed lids, which makes it seem like their eyes are open. This is normal and part of their natural sleep cycle.
Third, some breeds, have shallow eye sockets or loose eyelids. Their facial shape can make it hard to fully close their eyes, even when asleep. This is harmless due to their unique body structure.
Lastly, while rare, some health problems can keep eyes open. For example, nerve damage, eye infections, or conditions like epilepsy might be the cause. Apart from following breeds, if you find your pooch sleeping with open eyes frequently, it’s better to take them to the vet ASAP.
5 Dog Breeds that Sleep with Eyes Open
These 5 dog breeds always keep their eyes open during naps:
1. Bloodhound
If we talk about dogs who can track scents for miles, Bloodhound takes the stage.
This breed is famous for its droopy eyes and wrinkly face. Because of their loose skin, their eyelids often don’t close all the way when they sleep. This is what makes them look like they’re peeking at you.
So even when they’re napping ‘with eyes open,’ they’re probably dreaming about following an interesting trail. That’s why, don’t worry, it’s just how their face is built!
2. Basset Hound
Basset hounds were originally bred to sniff out rabbits and other small prey; all that due to their amazing noses.
This low-to-the-ground pup has long, floppy ears and sad-looking, droopy eyes. Just like a Bloodhound, their extra loose skin means their eyelids might not fully close when they sleep.
Because of this facial structure, when they’re dozing, they might look like they’re half-awake.
3. Cocker Spaniel
Some Cocker Spaniels keep their eyes slightly open, often due to eyelid abnormalities or weak muscles that keep their eyelids from fully closing. This breed can have certain eye conditions, like entropion or ectropion. This can make it harder for them to shut their eyes completely while sleeping.
This quirky dog sleeping habit is usually harmless but worth monitoring. It’s important to schedule regular check-ups to ensure their eyes remain healthy.
4. Saint Bernards
Saint Bernards were originally bred for rescue work in the snowy Alps, where their strength and keen sense of direction helped save lives.
There’s nothing to worry about when their eyes are open – that’s how they sleep because of their droopy jowls and heavy, loose eyelids. And their unique sleeping way is just one of the many things that make them special.
5. Bulldogs
Our list of dog breeds that sleep with their eyes open ends at this British breed, known as the loyal and guard dog. Their unique facial structure like wrinkled faces and flat noses may appear intimidating to strangers.
Because they have short noses and loose skin, which can sometimes prevent their eyelids from closing fully. So, if your bulldog is snoring loudly while keeping their eyes open, don’t call them to play outside because they’re sleeping in their unique style.
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FAQs
What dog breeds sleep with eyes open?
Some dog breeds like Bloodhounds, Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Saint Bernards, and Bulldogs can sleep with their eyes partly open. They have this unique sleep style because of their loose skin. It might look strange, but it’s normal for them. That means they’re still fast asleep, just in their own special way.
Why do dogs sleep with their eyes open?
Dogs may sleep with their eyes open due to various reasons like natural instincts, light sleep stages like REM, or their unique face shape with loose eyelids. It’s usually harmless. But if your dog does it often and seems unwell, it’s time to visit a vet as it may be a health issue.
