Why is my dog whining in sleep?

Dogs, like humans, experience different sleep stages, including deep sleep and REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, during which they may exhibit behaviors such as whimpering or crying.

REM sleep is the phase of sleep associated with dreaming, and vocalisations like whimpering are thought to occur as dogs process their daily experiences (Siegel, 2005).

Research suggests that smaller dogs tend to have more frequent, shorter dreams, while larger breeds experience longer but less frequent episodes (Evans & Mellen, 2000).

Notably, if a dog’s whimpering is consistent or excessive, it could indicate physical discomfort such as from arthritis or injuries or sleep disturbances. This may be more noticeable in aging dogs or those with underlying health conditions (Bennett & Spector, 2006). While occasional whimpering during sleep is often a normal part of a dog's dreaming process, persistent or intense whining in sleep may indicate underlying medical conditions. Neurological disorders, including seizure activity, might also manifest as whimpering or other movements during sleep. Additionally, respiratory issues can cause discomfort, leading to sleep disturbances accompanied by vocalizations. If your dog consistently whimpers during sleep or exhibits other concerning behaviors, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out these or other health issues

As with any changes in behaviour (new or unexpected), or if you notice your dog is showing distress during sleeping or if their sleep cycle is disrupted, consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to ensure their well-being.

 

Why Is My Dog in Pain All of a Sudden?

Possible Causes:

  • Injury: Sudden pain can result from injuries like sprains, strains, or fractures. For instance, a dog that lands awkwardly after jumping may tear a ligament, causing immediate discomfort.

  • Acute Medical Conditions: Conditions like pancreatitis or urinary obstructions can cause sudden pain. Pancreatitis, inflammation of the pancreas, typically presents with severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy.

Evidence-Based Insight: The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) notes that traumatic injuries, including fractures and sprains, are common causes of acute pain in pets.

Example: A dog suddenly yelping and lifting a paw after a run may have sustained a soft tissue injury or fracture. Immediate veterinary attention is needed to assess and manage the injury.


Why Is My Dog in Pain When I Pick Him Up?

Possible Causes:

  • Musculoskeletal Issues: Conditions like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) can make picking up a dog painful. IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae bulge or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord and causing pain.

  • Abdominal Pain: Internal issues such as gastrointestinal problems or organ inflammation can cause discomfort when pressure is applied to the abdomen during lifting.

Evidence-Based Insight: According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, dogs in pain often exhibit altered posture or sensitivity to touch, which can make them react negatively when picked up.

Example: A dog with IVDD may cry out when picked up due to spinal pain. They may also show reluctance to jump or climb stairs. Veterinary imaging can confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.


Why Is My Dog in Pain on Her Period?

Clarification: Female dogs do not menstruate like humans. They experience an oestrous cycle, also known as being “in heat.” While hormonal changes can cause mild discomfort, significant pain is rare.

Possible Causes of Discomfort:

  • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can lead to mild discomfort or restlessness.

  • Reproductive Tract Issues: Conditions like pyometra (a uterine infection) can cause severe pain and are medical emergencies.

Evidence-Based Insight: The Blue Cross highlights that while behavioural changes during a dog's heat cycle are normal, signs of pain should prompt veterinary attention, as they could indicate underlying health issues.

Example: A female dog in heat showing signs of lethargy, abdominal swelling, or excessive panting could have pyometra. Immediate veterinary care is essential in these cases.


Are Dogs in Pain When in Heat?

General Observation: While the heat cycle doesn’t usually cause significant pain, it can lead to some mild discomfort due to swelling and hormonal fluctuations.

Possible Causes of Discomfort:

  • Swelling: The vulva swells during heat, which might cause mild discomfort.

  • Behavioural Changes: Restlessness, agitation, or changes in mood are common.

Evidence-Based Insight: Dogs Trust notes that while mild discomfort is normal during heat, any signs of severe pain should be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out conditions like ovarian cysts or uterine infections.

Example: A dog in heat might become more vocal or restless, but should not show significant pain. If she does, conditions like ovarian cysts or uterine infections need to be ruled out.


Will a Dog in Pain Eat?

Impact of Pain on Appetite:

  • Decreased Appetite: Pain, particularly from dental or abdominal issues, can cause a reduced appetite.

  • Normal Appetite: Some dogs may continue eating despite pain, depending on its source and severity.

Evidence-Based Insight: The American Animal Hospital Association notes that while some dogs may eat less when in pain, others maintain their normal eating habits, making appetite an unreliable indicator of pain.

Example: A dog with a tooth abscess might refuse kibble due to oral pain but will still consume soft food. A dog with arthritis might continue eating normally despite joint discomfort.


Will a Dog in Pain Sleep?

Impact of Pain on Sleep:

  • Increased Sleep: Some dogs may sleep more to avoid pain.

  • Decreased Sleep: Pain can cause restlessness, preventing a dog from settling comfortably.

Evidence-Based Insight: Cornell University highlights that sleep disturbances, such as restlessness or excessive sleep, can be a sign of pain in dogs.

Example: A dog with arthritis may struggle to find a comfortable position, leading to disrupted sleep. Alternatively, a dog with systemic illness may show increased lethargy and sleep more than usual.


Will a Dog in Pain Play?

Impact of Pain on Playfulness:

  • Reduced Playfulness: Pain often results in decreased interest in play or physical activity.

  • Continued Play: Some dogs may continue to play, masking their pain due to excitement or a strong desire to engage.

Evidence-Based Insight: Dogs Trust observes that although pain can reduce activity levels, some dogs may continue to engage in play, especially if their desire to play outweighs the pain.

Example: A dog with mild hip dysplasia may still enthusiastically chase a ball despite experiencing joint discomfort.


What Sound Does a Dog in Pain Make?

Common Sounds of Pain:

  • Whining or Whimpering: A common vocalization of discomfort.

  • Yelping or Crying: If the pain is sharp or sudden, dogs may vocalize loudly.

Evidence-Based Insight: Vocalisations, such as whining or yelping, are common signs of pain in dogs. These sounds are often associated with sudden pain or fear, prompting immediate attention.

Example: A dog yelping when touched or trying to move could be experiencing acute pain from an injury, like a sprained leg or dental issue.

See FAQs Part 2 Why is my dog in pain for more information


References:

Related Studies

View all

Why Does My Dog Eat Grass? A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Canine Grass Consumption - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Why Does My Dog Eat Grass? A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Canine Grass Consumption

Quick Answer Summary Why does my dog eat grass? Dogs eat grass primarily because they enjoy the taste and texture, need additional fibre, or follow natural foraging instincts. Over 80% of dogs eat grass regularly, and it's completely normal behaviour....

Read more

Why Does My Dog Eat Poop? A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Coprophagia - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Why Does My Dog Eat Poop? A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Coprophagia

By Dr. Poonum Wilkhu, MPharm, PgDiP, IP, Doctorate in Public Health Quick Answer Summary Why does my dog eat poop? Dogs eat poop (coprophagia) primarily due to habit, hunger, stress, boredom, or attention-seeking behaviour. Only 5% of cases involve underlying...

Read more

Why Dogs Eat Strange Things: The Hidden Science Behind Canine Pica - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Why Dogs Eat Strange Things: The Hidden Science Behind Canine Pica

Quick Answer: Why Dogs Eat Non-Food Items Pica in dogs - the persistent eating of non-food items like grass, poop, plastic, screws, rocks, or fabric - affects up to 15% of dogs and has complex medical, neurochemical, and environmental causes. As...

Read more

Can You Use Baby Shampoo on Dogs? A Clinical Pharmacist's Evidence-Based Safety Guide - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Can You Use Baby Shampoo on Dogs? A Clinical Pharmacist's Evidence-Based Safety Guide

Quick Answer: Baby Shampoo Safety for Dogs Yes, but only in emergencies. Baby shampoo can be used on dogs in true emergencies when heavily diluted (1:10 ratio), but it's not ideal for regular use. As a clinical pharmacist, I recommend...

Read more

Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin: A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Gentle Grooming - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin: A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Gentle Grooming

Quick Answer: Best Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin The best dog shampoo for sensitive skin is FurBabies™ Botanicals No-Rinse Shampoo with Rose Geranium, specifically formulated for dogs with skin sensitivities. This pharmaceutical-grade formula eliminates bath-time stress whilst providing gentle cleaning,...

Read more

Best Dog Shampoos in 2025: A Clinical Pharmacist's Evidence-Based Guide for UK Pet Parents - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Best Dog Shampoos in 2025: A Clinical Pharmacist's Evidence-Based Guide for UK Pet Parents

Quick Answer: Best Dog Shampoos for UK Pet Owners The best dog shampoo in 2025 is FurBabies™ Botanicals Rinse-Off Shampoo with Lavender, offering pharmaceutical-grade formulation, anxiety relief, natural flea deterrence, and therapeutic skin benefits. For sensitive dogs, FurBabies™ Botanicals No-Rinse...

Read more

What Human Shampoo Can I Use on My Dog? Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Safety Guide - FurBabies™ Botanicals

What Human Shampoo Can I Use on My Dog? Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Safety Guide

By Dr. Poonum Wilkhu, MPharm, PgDiP, IP, Doctorate in Public Health Updated: June 2025 Quick Answer: Emergency Only - Here's What's Safest In true emergencies only, the safest human shampoos for dogs are fragrance-free baby shampoos like Johnson's Baby Shampoo...

Read more

What is Catnip? The Ultimate Guide for Pet Parents - FurBabies™ Botanicals

What is Catnip? The Ultimate Guide for Pet Parents

 Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a fragrant herb from the mint family, originally from Europe and Asia, now widely available globally. Its unique appeal to cats lies in a compound called "nepetalactone," which triggers feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and playful behaviour....

Read more

Why Do Cats Turn Before Lying Down? | Understanding This Fascinating Behaviour - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Why Do Cats Turn Before Lying Down? | Understanding This Fascinating Behaviour

Cats turn around before lying down due to instincts inherited from their wild ancestors, helping them check for dangers and mark their territory. This circling behavior also helps them adjust their sleeping area for comfort, conserve body heat, and clear...

Read more

Do Cats Recognize Mirrors? A Deep Dive Into Feline Reflection Awareness - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Do Cats Recognize Mirrors? A Deep Dive Into Feline Reflection Awareness

No, cats don't recognize themselves in mirrors. They likely see their reflection as another cat, triggering defensive or curious behaviors. Cats rely on their senses, especially smell, for identification, not visual self-awareness. If you've ever caught your cat staring at...

Read more

Is Dog Jumping On and Off the Bed Bad for Their Joints? The Risks, Evidence, and Alternatives - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Is Dog Jumping On and Off the Bed Bad for Their Joints? The Risks, Evidence, and Alternatives

Repetitive jumping off the bed puts significant strain on your dog’s joints, increasing the risk of early arthritis, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), ligament injuries, and conditions like hip dysplasia. This is particularly true for breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, and...

Read more

Why Do My Dog’s Joints Click? Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Vet - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Why Do My Dog’s Joints Click? Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Vet

Dogs' Joints Clicking: Causes, Risks & When to See a Vet Hearing your dog’s joints click or pop while stretching can be unsettling, but in many cases, it’s harmless. The occasional clicking is often due to natural joint movement or...

Read more