Does your dog suddenly start screaming or crying while sleeping? It can be startling and concerning when your furry companion wakes up screaming or crying seemingly out of nowhere. As a dog owner, you’re probably worried that something is seriously wrong with your pet.

The good news is that in most cases, there are identifiable reasons behind this behavior that can be addressed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top reasons dogs wake up screaming and what you can do about it.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Dogs often wake up screaming or crying due to dreams or nightmares, pain or discomfort, or cognitive dysfunction syndrome. Strategies like managing pain through medication, using calming aids, and restricting activity before bed can help.

Vivid Dreams and Nightmares

Dogs experience rapid eye movement (REM) sleep just like humans do. During this stage of sleep, a dog’s brain is very active and they can have incredibly vivid dreams, similar to the dreams humans have.

Dogs experience REM sleep just like humans, and can have vivid dreams

Studies using electroencephalography (EEG) have shown that dogs spend about 10 to 15 percent of their sleep time in the REM stage, the period when dreaming occurs. Like people, dogs can have exciting dreams that make their legs twitch as they sleep, or even cause them to make noises or motions as if they are really happening.

Dreams can turn to nightmares that cause dogs to wake up in a panic

Unfortunately, sometimes a dog’s pleasant dream can turn into a nightmare. This may cause them to suddenly wake up yelping or screaming in fear. The scare likely feels very real to them in the moment before they fully wake up and realize they are safe.

Certain breeds like Beagles and German Shepherds are more prone to nightmares than other types of dogs.

Triggers for nightmares include stress, change in routine, and more

Common Nightmare Triggers Tips to Reduce Nightmares
– Stress or anxiety – Maintain consistent schedule
– Change in routine – Give relaxing evening routine
– Traumatic experience – Provide safe spaces to sleep
– Illness or medication – Use calming supplements

Discomfort and Pain

Joint pain, gum disease, and other issues can cause dogs to wake up screaming

As dogs get older, it’s common for them to develop pain and discomfort from conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, gum disease, dental problems, and cancer. Joint pain in particular tends to get worse at night or when the dog has been lying still for a while.

When the dog tries to get up, the sudden movement can cause severe pain that makes them yelp or scream. Gum disease and problems with teeth or gums can also cause significant discomfort when eating or chewing.

Any condition that causes periodic pain or discomfort can potentially disturb a dog’s sleep and cause them to wake up screaming.

As dogs age, pain becomes more prevalent and disruptive to sleep

Senior dogs experience more pain as they age due to normal wear and tear on their bodies over the years. Arthritis is very common in older dogs, with estimates ranging from 20-60% of dogs being affected. The joints become inflamed, stiff, and painful.

Hip dysplasia also worsens with age and can cause mobility issues and sleep disturbances. Older dogs may develop cancerous tumors that put pressure on nerves and tissue, leading to pain. Periodontal disease affects over 85% of dogs by age 3.

The inflammation and infection in the gums and roots of teeth can cause severe discomfort. Any condition that disrupts sleep repeatedly will take a toll on the dog’s health and quality of life. That’s why it’s so important to identify and treat the source of the pain or discomfort.

Medications, supplements, warmth, and massage can help manage pain

If your aging dog is waking up screaming or whining in pain, there are some things you can try at home to help provide relief:

  • Talk to your vet about anti-inflammatory medications or pain medications to manage arthritis, dental pain, or other chronic issues.
  • Joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin can help rebuild cartilage and lubricate joints.
  • Warm compresses or heating pads can soothe sore joints before bedtime.
  • Gentle massage of sore muscles and joints may ease discomfort.
  • Adjust bedding to provide proper orthopedic support.
  • Use ramps and orthopedic dog beds to reduce pain from getting up and down.

While these remedies may help temporarily, you’ll need to get to the underlying cause of the pain through a veterinary exam in order to provide lasting relief and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Vet exam necessary to identify and properly treat source of pain

If your dog is crying out when they wake up, this signals something is wrong and needs veterinary attention. Your vet will do a physical exam and diagnostic tests such as x-rays, bloodwork, or imaging to pinpoint the cause. Common treatments may include:

  • Medications to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Joint fluid therapy injections to increase mobility.
  • Surgery to repair torn ligaments, remove tumors, or address structural issues.
  • Dental cleaning and tooth extractions to treat gum and mouth pain.

While the treatments depend on the diagnosis, the goal is to alleviate pain and improve quality of life. With the right treatment plan, you can help your dog sleep peacefully again. Some pain may be unavoidable as your furry friend ages, but managing it properly will go a long way toward their comfort.

Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome

As dogs age, many develop canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), which is similar to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in humans. CDS can cause senior dogs to seem confused, get lost in familiar places, fail to recognize family members, wake up screaming or crying, and experience other behavioral changes.

Dementia in older dogs can lead to confusion and waking up screaming

According to the American Kennel Club, over 50% of dogs over the age of 10 show signs of CDS. As with Alzheimer’s patients, affected dogs’ brains demonstrate a buildup of abnormal protein deposits over time, leading to cognitive decline. This impacts memory, learning, awareness, and more.

It’s common for senior dogs with CDS to seem lost in the house, fail to respond to cues, get stuck behind furniture, or even wake up suddenly screaming or crying out as they no longer recognize where they are.

Affected dogs may seem lost and react strangely to family members

In some cases, dogs with CDS may not even recognize familiar family members they have lived with for years. They may shy away, react fearfully, or even show unprovoked aggression toward people they normally love.

These changes in behavior can be shocking and upsetting for pet owners witnessing their once-friendly dog transformed by CDS over time. Having patience and compassion is important, as the dog cannot help these cognitive changes.

Prescription medications can slow progression of cognitive decline

While there is no cure for canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome yet, certain medications may help slow worsening symptoms. Common prescriptions include Anipryl (selegiline), which helps protect nerve cells from damage and has shown modest improvements in CDS dogs.

Supplements like fish oil and antioxidants may also be beneficial. Work closely with your veterinarian to explore suitable drug and nutraceutical options to ease your senior dog’s CDS difficulties.

Keeping routines consistent helps senior dogs feel more secure

In addition to possible medications, there are also lifestyle approaches to make life easier for a dog experiencing CDS. Sticking to regular daily schedules helps ease anxiety. Senior dogs with CDS feel most secure when their environment remains stable and familiar.

Try to feed them, walk them, and put them to bed around the same times each day. Any changes should be introduced gradually to avoid confusion. Ensure they have cozy, comfortable sleeping spots to return to.

Overall, be patient – a little extra care and consistency from you can make all the difference!

How to Calm Your Dog After an Episode

Remain calm, don’t make a big deal of the situation

When your dog wakes up screaming or crying, it’s understandable to feel concerned and want to comfort them. However, overreacting can sometimes make your dog more anxious or reinforce the behavior. Instead, try to remain calm and don’t make a big deal out of the situation.

Speak in a soft, soothing voice and gently pet or stroke your dog to provide reassurance.

If your dog seems distressed, wait until they have calmed down before approaching. According to the AKC, you shouldn’t immediately wake up a dog having a nightmare as this can startle them. Let them wake up on their own, then comfort them.

Gently pet and reassure your dog in a soothing voice

Once your dog has woken up and seems alert, some gentle affection can help soothe and calm them. Speak in a soft, comforting tone, saying things like “It’s alright” and “You’re safe”. Slowly stroke their head, ears or chin as this can release endorphins and make dogs feel relaxed.

Continue providing gentle reassurance until your dog’s breathing and heart rate return to normal. Praise them when they start to relax to reinforce the calming behavior. Getting a treat or favorite toy can also shift their focus.

Distract your dog with a treat or walk to redirect their mind

After an intense dream or nightmare, distracting your dog’s mind with an enjoyable activity can prevent recurring episodes. Try giving them a tasty treat like a dental chew stick or puzzle feeder. You can also shift their attention with some play time or a short walk around the block.

Physical activity releases feel-good endorphins while the sights and smells redirect your dog mentally away from whatever caused their distress. Just 5-10 minutes is often enough to substantially calm your dog down and change their state of mind.

Consider using calming aids like pheromones or CBD treats

If your dog frequently cries or screams in their sleep, using dedicated calming products can help relax both their mind and body to prevent episodes.

Pheromone diffusers release soothing pheromones that mimic those emitted by nursing mothers to reassure puppies. These naturally promote relaxation and can be used safely long-term.

CBD treats support calm moods and sound sleep cycles in dogs without sedating side effects. Consult your vet before using CBD to ensure proper dosing for your dog’s size.

Method How it Works
Pheromone Diffusers Release mothering pheromones that provide comfort and reassurance
CBD Treats Interact with receptors to promote relaxation and healthy sleep cycles

Using pheromones, CBD, or other calming aids alongside positive reinforcement of relaxed behaviors can help minimize midnight crying episodes in dogs.

Preventing Future Screaming Episodes

Dogs that wake up screaming likely have underlying issues causing the episodes. While startling for both dog and owner, there are several ways to prevent future screaming events.

Keep a consistent, relaxing bedtime routine

Establishing a calming bedtime routine signals to your dog that it’s time to wind down and get ready for sleep. Try activities like:

  • Giving your dog a warm bath 1-2 hours before bed
  • Massaging your dog with relaxing oils
  • Playing calming music
  • Dimming the lights in the home

Keeping the routine consistent every night will help cue your dog that it’s time to relax.

Restrict food, water, and exercise at night

To prevent digestive issues or bursts of energy before bed, stop feeding your dog 2-3 hours before bedtime. Limit water intake 1 hour before bed, and avoid strenuous exercise 3 hours prior. This allows your dog to settle down and drift off to sleep more easily.

Make sure your dog’s sleeping area is quiet and comfortable

Dogs are easily startled, so choose a sleeping spot away from household noises. Make the area inviting with soft bedding that retains your scent. Some dogs may prefer covered beds or crates that feel more den-like and secure.

Use an orthopedic dog bed and warm blankets for older dogs

Older dogs often experience pain that can disturb their sleep. According to AKC, orthopedic beds provide cushioning and support for achy joints. Heated beds or blankets can also soothe arthritis pain to prevent sudden movements.

Consider anti-anxiety medication or supplements if recommended by your vet

For dogs with severe separation anxiety or phobias triggering the screaming, medications may be prescribed. Natural calming supplements like melatonin or CBD could also be recommended. Consult your vet to explore if these options are suitable for your dog.

Conclusion

While waking up screaming or crying can be disturbing for both you and your dog, there are usually identifiable causes for this behavior that can be addressed. By understanding what’s provoking the episodes, managing your dog’s pain and anxiety, adapting their environment, and responding calmly, you can help prevent future occurrences and allow you both to rest easy.

The main takeaway is that waking up screaming is often a symptom of an underlying physical, mental or emotional issue in dogs. So don’t just chalk it up to a bad dream – consult your vet to get to the root of the problem.

With patience and care, you can help create a peaceful sleep environment where your dog feels safe, secure and comfortable.

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