Is your dog twitching while sleeping? Chances are they're just having some interesting dreams. However, there are actually a few other explanations for a twitching dog. Most of the time twitching is just normal doggy behavior, but some cases may be due to factors like stress, advanced age or an underlying health condition.

Here's everything you need to know about dog twitching, including when you should take your pup to see a veterinarian.

Why Is My Dog Twitching?

Dog twitching is an involuntary muscle spasm that occurs rapidly and suddenly in almost any part of a pup's body. Twitching typically happens in the back legs, usually while your dog is sleeping.

Common reasons for dog twitching include:

According to Labrador Training HQ, if your dog has been exposed to certain toxins, such as chocolate or laundry detergent, the poisoning from those toxins may cause your dog to twitch as well. Age may also account for a twitching dog. Puppies, especially newborns, twitch often because it's part of their "healthy development," according to PetHelpful. Puppies are especially active dreamers because they're strengthening their muscles and their brains.

Do Dogs Twitch While Dreaming?

A dog twitching while sleeping is a good indicator that they're deep in snoozeland. Dogs have the same sleep stages as humans, including short-wave sleep and rapid eye movement. Oftentimes, your dog will look like they're kicking the air when they're dreaming.

On average, dogs sleep for about 12 to 14 hours a day. During the sleep stages, it's common and normal for a dog to twitch their tail or their entire body — they may even bark. Think of this as your dog communicating in their sleep.

Dogs also twitch during nightmares or night terrors, Tufts University says. Though this can be difficult to watch, they suggest not waking your dog unless it's clear that they're experiencing distress. If you need to wake them, gently call their name until they come to. Do not touch a dog that's having night terrors or you'll risk getting bitten.

Do Dogs Twitch While They're Awake?

A dog can experience rapid muscle spasms both at night and during their waking hours. In healthy dogs, a twitch once in a while is no cause for concern, especially if they're a senior dog. Environmental or situational stimulators, such as thunder or strangers in the home, can cause a dog to twitch while they're awake. If the twitching stops when the stimulus leaves, your pup was probably just reacting to the situation at hand.

Some dogs twitch as a nervous habit, just like their human counterparts, or if they're experiencing separation anxiety. If your dog has general anxiety, they may also twitch or tremble. By speaking with your vet, you can find out how to better manage these conditions and make your pup feel more comfortable.

When Should You Call the Vet?

If your dog is experiencing full-body tremors that last longer than a quick spasm or that make their body go rigid, they may be having a seizure. In these scenarios, you should immediately call an emergency vet. Other signs of a seizure include:

  • Vomiting
  • Foaming at the mouth
  • Passing a bowel movement
  • Urinating

Prior to having a seizure your dog may seem anxious or restless. During a seizure, your dog may also keep their eyes wide open, whether they're asleep or awake, and exhibit a "deer in headlights" look, says Pads and Paws, and they will often act confused or dazed after the event. It's also important to recognize that seizures don't always have a classic appearance. Sometimes they can manifest as focal tics or tremors; therefore, looking for other indications of seizure activity, such as the described behavioral changes, can be helpful in deciding whether or not your dog has experienced a seizure versus a normal muscle twitch. If you're ever suspicious of seizure activity, you should contact your vet right away for guidance.

Significant and extended periods of twitching can be symptomatic of diabetes, hypothermia, kidney and liver issues or poison ingestion, writes vet Justine A. Lee for Pet Health Network — all of which will require vet treatment. Common toxins that your dog may ingest include rodent poisons, medications and human foods that aren't safe for pets. If you suspect poisoning, call an emergency vet right away.

More often than not, your furry friend is twitching in their sleep because they're enjoying a good dream. But if you're ever in doubt, it's always a good move to give your vet a call.

Christine O'Brien Christine O'Brien

Christine O'Brien is a writer, mom, and long-time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the house. Her work also appears in Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy, where she writes about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien.

Related articles

Managing Your Dogs Congestive Heart Failure

Learn to recognize the signs of congestive heart failure in dogs so you can give your dog the best chance of a longer, healthier life.

Cyanosis & Blue Skin in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & More

Cyanosis in dogs can be a serious condition, with symptoms like blue skin needing emergency treatment. Learn what to do if your dog shows signs like this.

Clinical Signs of a Dog Ear Yeast Infection

Learn more about the clinical signs of ear yeast infections in dogs, including physical and behavioral symptoms, as well as which breeds are most at risk.

Preventing Your Dog from Chewing Up Everything

Dogs use chewing as a means of discovery, but it can often be destructive to your property. Learn ways you can help correct this costly behavior.

Common Health Concerns to Look for in Puppies

Watch out for these 6 common health issues that puppies may develop in their first year of life. Learn all the symptoms so you can provide the best care.

Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment

Learn all about hip dysplasia in dogs, including causes & symptoms of the disease, most susceptible breeds, diagnosis and treatment options.

Newborn Puppy Care: 5 Things You Need to Know

Learn five essential tips to help you care for your newborn puppies, including how to keep them warm, nursing advice and more.

Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks: A Guide for Senior Training

Is teaching an old dog new tricks really impossible? Discover the truth about this cliche and learn tips for successfully training your senior dog.

My Dog Ate Gum: What Should I Do?

Learn what to do if your dog ate gum, symptoms that might indicate if he has xylitol poisoning and when you should bring them to the vet.

Dog Devotion: Shining Examples of Dog Loyalty

Learn more about a dog's devotion and loyalty to you and how you can tell whether it is real or just a ploy for more treats.

Dog Boops! Does Your Dog Actually Enjoy Them?

Dog boops are all the craze on social media, but the booping nose gesture isn't just cute, it's also a great way to connect with your dog. Learn more...

How to Manage IBD in Dogs

Learn if your dog may be experiencing symptoms of IBD, why it's different from IBS in people, and how your vet can help manage and treat this condition.

Five Tips to Help Train Your Puppy

Learn some effective ways to train your puppy, including home, group, and professional training, with these five helpful tips.

Dogs & Holiday Sweets: Which Are Bad & What To Do if a Dog Eats Them

If you suspect that your dog has eaten holiday sweets or candy, find out which common treats might be dangerous for him and what you should do next.

Fostering a Puppy: A How-To Guide

First-time foster parents: Learn about the process of fostering a puppy or dog, including how to prepare, challenges & rewards that come with it.

Dog Traits & Personalities for the Seven Breed Classes

Discover how breeds influence dog personalities and learn which traits you'll likely find in each of the seven main dog breeds.

Typical Health Problems in Small Breed Dogs

If you've recently adopted a small dog, learn some health issues that commonly affect smaller breeds, from tracheal breathing issues to knee displacement.

Avoiding Returning a Dog to the Animal Shelter

Learn how to avoid having to return a dog to the animal shelter after adoption by understanding the reasons why dogs are returned.

Safety Tips for Walking Dogs at Night

Learn helpful safety tips for walking your dog at night, including how to stay visible and special considerations to keep in mind when walking after dark.

Is My Dog Sick? How Can I Tell?

If your dog is behaving strangely and you suspect something is wrong, learn some common behaviors they may be exhibiting to show they're not feeling well.