Do Dogs Dream
According to scientific research, dreaming is a response to daily activities, thoughts and actions, a metaphorical reflection of the events of our day that rarely make sense to us when we wake up. Studies show that dreams occur during the REM (rapid eye movement) stage of sleep and by preventing it; scientists have thus prevented candidates from dreaming. Results of the experiment suggested that those whose dreams were prevented were much more susceptible to anxiety and irritability, making dreaming a vital part of a stable mind.
As popular pets, many are interested to know if dogs share our ability to dream. Known for twitching, flinching and barking during sleep, most suggest that they do indeed dream, but their limited imaginations probably also place a limit on their dream topic.
The sleep stage at which the brain is most active and when both our and a dog’s muscles are prepared for action, is the REM stage. An electroencephalogram is used to measure this brain activity, suggesting that it is during this time that dreaming occurs. It is also at this point that the dog is likely to be twitching, barking and whimpering. Conversely, when the dog is in the first stage of sleep (SWS), breathing is heavy and heart rate is slow.
This evidence suggests that dogs do indeed dream. In fact, all mammals are said to ‘dream’, though there are few theories about the reason why they do. It may even be for the same reason we do, but it is likely to be something we will never know for certain.
Dogs that have suffered abuse or neglect, unlike humans, do not suffer from nightmares. Theories suggest that because dogs that have been victims of mistreatment and neglect don’t experience REM during their regular sleep pattern, they therefore do not dream at all. People who have suffered from trauma, however, are much more likely to suffer from nightmares.
Dr. Ernest Hartman, a leading expert in the field, suggests our dreams are shaped by our emotions. If this I the case, a dog is likely to have dreams about things they consider to be ‘important’, like family, food and fun. Puppies, just like children, have a higher dream rate than adult dogs.
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