At some point, you must have seen your canine companion snoozing away and wondered, ‘why does my dog sleep with his tongue out?” It is quite amusing to see, and as it turns out, there are a few reasons why dogs “blep” in their sleep.

If you ever find yourself wondering whether your dog’s tongue being out during sleep affects their overall comfort, you can rest assured that it usually doesn’t. It’s important to note that dogs sleeping with their tongues out is typically not concerning unless accompanied by other signs.

Let’s dive right into understanding the fascinating reasons behind this canine sleeping behavior. The book Canine Behavior Insights sheds some light on dogs napping while sticking out their tongue.

So, Why Do Dogs Stick Their Tongue Out While Sleeping?

Dogs sticking their tongue out while sleeping mainly shows they’re extremely relaxed and comfortable. Other reasons include temperature regulation, skull shape, brachycephalic airway and hanging tongue syndrome and medical issues like respiratory and neurological problems.

As a dog owner, it’s important to observe your pet’s behavior and consult a veterinarian if you notice any unusual sleeping patterns or behaviors.

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Dogs are a constant source of fascination and amusement, with quirky habits like digging holes, chasing their tails, and even, you guessed it, eating poop. So, you could say napping with the tongue sticking out is actually quite tame compared to some of the other quirks.

One reason for this behavior is simply that it’s more comfortable for them. Dogs regulate their body temperature through panting, and leaving their tongue out while they sleep can help them stay cool. Our article on why dogs stick their tongue out can help if the behavior happens even when they’re not sleeping.

Overall, if your dog is sleeping with their tongue out, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, if you notice any signs of distress or are concerned, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine if there’s an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.

Here are seven reasons dogs stick their tongues out when sleeping:

reasons why dogs stick their tongues out when sleeping

1. Temperature Regulation

Dogs regulate their body temperature through panting, which is a natural way to cool down. When a dog is sleeping, their body temperature drops, and they may stick their tongue out to regulate their body temperature. The tongue helps to dissipate heat, and by leaving it out, the dog can cool down more efficiently.

2. Relaxation and Comfort

The main reason dogs sleep with their tongues out is that they’re relaxed. When dogs are in a deep state of relaxation, their muscles relax, including the muscles in their mouth. This can cause their tongue to fall out of their mouth while they sleep.

So, the next time you see your pup snoozing with their tongue out, know that it’s likely just a sign that they’re feeling comfortable and at ease.

Ever wondered if your dog’s tongue is clean? Check out our article on the topic.

3. Skull Shape: Long Narrow Muzzles and Brachycephaly

The shape of a dog’s skull can also affect how they sleep. Dogs with long, narrow muzzles, such as Greyhounds and Whippets, may sleep with their tongue out because it helps them breathe more easily and their mouths are just too narrow to keep the tongue inside comfortably.

On the other hand, dogs with brachycephalic (short-nosed) skulls, such as Bulldogs and Pugs. Additionally, some dogs may have a longer tongue or a shorter snout, which can make it more difficult for them to keep their tongue in their mouth while they sleep.

Fun fact: Studies show that the short snout in brachycephalic breeds is responsible for their increased sleepiness and perceived “laziness.” This is because these dogs experience more interruptions/ sleep apnea and less quality REM sleep, making them compensate with daytime naps.

Health Implications

A Bulldog sleeping with their tongue out

When we see our dogs sleeping with their tongues out, it can be cute and endearing. However, it may also be a sign of underlying health issues. In this section, we will discuss some of the potential health implications of dogs sleeping with their tongues out.

1. Dental Health

One possible reason for a dog sleeping with their tongue out is dental issues. Dogs with dental problems may have difficulty closing their mouths fully, leading to their tongues hanging out. Dental issues can include periodontal disease, broken teeth, or misaligned jaws.

2. Neurological Disorders

Another possible cause of a dog sleeping with their tongue out is neurological disorders. Neurological disorders can affect a dog’s ability to control their tongue and jaw muscles, leading to their tongue hanging out while sleeping. Some neurological disorders that can cause this include epilepsy, brain tumors, and meningitis.

3. Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition where a dog’s breathing is interrupted while sleeping. This interruption can cause the tongue to fall out of the mouth. Sleep apnea can be caused by obesity, allergies, or other respiratory issues. Research shows that a short snout predisposes a dog to sleep apnea.

4. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a condition that affects dogs with short noses, such as bulldogs and pugs. Dogs with BOAS have difficulty breathing, which can cause their tongues to hang out while sleeping. BOAS can be caused by narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palates, or other airway obstructions. Specifically, these dogs may also have enlarged tongues that they struggle to keep inside their mouths.

When to Be Concerned About Your Dog Sleeping with the Tongue Out

A dog sleeping on a table with the tip of their tongue poking out of their mouth

If you notice your dog sleeping with their tongue out, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, there are some instances where it may be a cause for concern. Here are some signs to look out for:

Signs of Distress

If your dog is sleeping with their tongue out but also exhibiting other signs of distress, such as panting excessively or drooling excessively, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Other signs of distress may include:

Rapid breathing;
Difficulty breathing;
Lethargy;
Loss of appetite; and
Vomiting or diarrhea.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Veterinary Consultation

If your dog is sleeping with their tongue out and you’re concerned, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can help determine if there’s an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.

Your veterinarian may perform a physical exam and run diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your dog’s symptoms. Depending on the underlying cause, they may recommend treatment options, such as medication or dietary changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do some dogs sleep with their tongues out?

Some dogs sleep with their tongues out simply because it’s comfortable for them. Others may do it because they have a medical condition that makes it difficult to keep their tongue in their mouth. If you’re concerned about your dog’s sleeping habits, it’s always a good idea to talk to your vet.

Is it normal for dogs to sleep with their tongues out?

Yes, it’s normal for some dogs to sleep with their tongues out. As we mentioned earlier, it could just be a matter of comfort, or it could be a medical issue. If your dog seems healthy and happy, there’s probably nothing to worry about.

What does it mean when a dog’s tongue sticks out?

When a dog’s tongue sticks out, it could mean a few things. It could just be a matter of comfort or it could be a medical issue. If your dog’s tongue is sticking out all the time, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet to make sure there isn’t an underlying health problem.

Why do French Bulldogs often sleep with their tongues out?

French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a short snout and flat face. This can make it difficult for them to breathe, especially when they’re sleeping. Sleeping with their tongue out can help them breathe more easily.

Do all breeds of dogs sleep with their tongues out?

No, not all breeds of dogs sleep with their tongues out. It’s more common in brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Bulldogs.

Can a dog’s tongue being out while sleeping indicate a health problem?

Yes, a dog’s tongue being out while sleeping can indicate a health problem. It could be a sign of a respiratory issue or another medical condition if there are other symptoms like breathing difficulties. If you’re concerned about your dog’s sleeping habits, it’s always a good idea to talk to your vet.

Final Thoughts

There are several reasons why dogs sleep with their tongues out. It could be a natural sleeping position for them, or it could be a sign of a health issue. If your dog only sleeps with their tongue out occasionally, it’s likely nothing to worry about. However, if it becomes a regular occurrence, it’s important to take note of any other symptoms your dog may be experiencing and consult with a veterinarian.

Remember to keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and take note of any changes. By doing so, you can ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.