Is This Normal? Finder · Sleep and energy

My puppy twitches and runs in his sleep. Is that normal?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

Yes, that's dreaming. Paddling legs, little yips and twitchy lips are what puppy dreams look like. A dreaming puppy wakes up when you say his name or touch him gently, and he's himself right away.

Why it happens

Puppies spend a big share of their sleep dreaming, and their bodies haven't learned to stay still through it yet. Plenty of grown dogs still paddle now and then.

Which door?

WATCHDreaming.
CALL TODAYHe can't be woken, or it happens while he's awake.

Usually normal

Paddling or "running" legs while asleep
Soft whimpers or yips
It stops as soon as he wakes up

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

CALL TODAYIt doesn't stop when you call his name or touch him
GO NOWFalling over, paddling or jaw chomping while he's awake (possible seizure). Note the time and take a video if you can

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.

GO NOW means: Head to your vet, if they're open and can see him right away, or to the nearest emergency clinic. Call on the way so they're ready for you.

Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.

Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.

Is this an emergency?

General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.