Why Some Dogs Sleep with Their Eyes Open

Understanding Dog Sleep Cycles

Dogs, like humans, experience different stages of sleep, including slow-wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. These cycles influence whether a dog’s eyes are open or closed during sleep. During SWS, the body is relaxed, and brain activity slows down. REM sleep, on the other hand, is characterized by increased brain activity, muscle twitching, and, as the name suggests, rapid eye movements.

The position of the eyelids during sleep can vary depending on the stage of sleep. During light sleep, a dog’s eyes might be partially open. This is often a normal occurrence and doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem. The nictitating membrane, or third eyelid, also plays a role in protecting the eye during sleep.

The Role of the Nictitating Membrane 👁️

The nictitating membrane is a protective fold of tissue located in the inner corner of a dog’s eye. It acts as a windshield wiper, keeping the eye moist and free from debris. When a dog is relaxed or sleeping, the nictitating membrane often partially covers the eye, even if the eyelids are slightly open. This provides an additional layer of protection.

If you observe your dog sleeping with their eyes open and the nictitating membrane is visible, it is likely a normal physiological response. The membrane is doing its job of protecting the cornea. However, if the membrane is consistently visible even when the dog is awake and alert, it could indicate an underlying health issue.

Reasons Why Dogs Sleep with Their Eyes Open

Several factors can contribute to a dog sleeping with their eyes open. These reasons range from normal sleep behavior to potential health problems. Here are some of the most common explanations:

• Light Sleep: Dogs may sleep with their eyes partially open during light sleep, allowing them to remain somewhat aware of their surroundings. This is a survival mechanism inherited from their ancestors.
• REM Sleep: While less common, some dogs may exhibit eye movements and partially open eyes during REM sleep. This is often accompanied by muscle twitching or vocalizations.
• Breed Predisposition: Certain breeds, particularly those with shorter snouts (brachycephalic breeds) like Bulldogs and Pugs, may be more prone to sleeping with their eyes open due to their facial structure.
• Muscle Relaxation: During deep sleep, the muscles around the eyes relax, potentially causing the eyelids to open slightly.
• Nervous System Immaturity: Puppies, with their developing nervous systems, may not have full control over their eyelid muscles, leading to them sleeping with their eyes open.
• Health Conditions: In some cases, sleeping with eyes open can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as facial nerve paralysis or other neurological issues.

Breed Predispositions 🐕

As mentioned earlier, certain breeds are more likely to sleep with their eyes open. Brachycephalic breeds, with their flattened faces and shallow eye sockets, often have difficulty fully closing their eyelids. This can result in them sleeping with their eyes partially open, exposing the cornea to air and potential dryness.

Other breeds may also exhibit this behavior due to genetic factors or conformation. If you own a brachycephalic breed or notice that your dog consistently sleeps with their eyes open, it’s essential to monitor their eyes for signs of dryness or irritation.

Potential Health Concerns

While sleeping with eyes open is often harmless, it can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem. Conditions that affect the facial nerves or muscles can interfere with eyelid closure. These conditions include:

• Facial Nerve Paralysis: Damage to the facial nerve can weaken the muscles responsible for closing the eyelids, leading to them remaining open during sleep.
• Neurological Disorders: Certain neurological disorders can affect muscle control and coordination, potentially causing the eyelids to remain open.
• Eye Infections or Irritations: Inflammation or discomfort in the eye can sometimes cause a dog to keep their eyes partially open.
• Corneal Ulcers: If the cornea is damaged, the dog may not be able to close their eye properly.

If you suspect that your dog’s open eyes during sleep are related to a health issue, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian promptly.

When to Consult a Veterinarian 🩺

It’s essential to know when sleeping with eyes open warrants a visit to the vet. While occasional occurrences may be normal, certain signs should prompt concern:

• Persistent Open Eyes: If your dog consistently sleeps with their eyes open, especially if it’s a new behavior.
• Visible Nictitating Membrane When Awake: If the third eyelid is consistently visible even when your dog is alert.
• Eye Dryness or Irritation: Redness, excessive tearing, squinting, or pawing at the eyes.
• Facial Asymmetry: Drooping of the face or difficulty eating or drinking.
• Other Neurological Signs: Head tilting, circling, or seizures.

A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the open eyes and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.

Protecting Your Dog’s Eyes

If your dog sleeps with their eyes open and you’re concerned about potential dryness or irritation, there are steps you can take to protect their eyes:

• Artificial Tears: Use veterinarian-approved artificial tears to keep the eyes lubricated.
• Humidifier: A humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, reducing the risk of dry eyes.
• Protective Eyewear: In some cases, protective eyewear, such as dog goggles, may be recommended to shield the eyes from wind and debris.

Always consult with your veterinarian before using any eye care products on your dog.