The Golden Retriever puppy in this video already knows how to comfort an older dog having a bad dream.  They were both sleeping.  All of a sudden, the older Retriever starts having a bad dream.  The puppy got up immediately to check on his friend, and start to snuggle with him.  Then he caught sight of his mom holding the camera to film this lovely sight, and turned to her.  Then he returned to his older friend and put his head right up against his friend’s neck.  His friend seems to calm right down.  So is there anything we can do to help our dogs when they have a bad dream?  Arah McManamna shares on Rover about how she helps her adopted dog get through nightmares.

How to help a dog having a bad dream

She suggests not waking your dog by touching her.  Startled dogs may react in ways they usually don’t.  If you feel it’s best to wake her, then just call her name.  Don’t touch her.  Or, you can speak in a soothing voice to her even while she is in the bad dream, and see if that helps.  If your dog has nightmares often, you might consult your vet.  If your dog has disrupted sleep, there are some things you can do to help her get a good night sleep.  A cozy bed (some suggest memory foam) is more comfortable for hurting joints.  This might help dogs with arthritis.  Again, check with your vet to see if this is the best action.  You can also play quiet music, such as classical.  There’s been studies that show classical music can help to soothe dogs.  There are pressure wraps that help dogs who feel anxiety.  Some say it feels like a hug to them.  Some dogs feel more secure and safe sleeping in a crate.  You can experiment to see which feels better for your dog.  You can read Arah’s article here.

Article source:  Arah McManamna in Rover