Do dogs sleep with their eyes open?

October 3, 2026 · 5 min read

A boxer dog lying on the hardwood floor beside a blue-grey oval dog bed

You walk past your dog's bed and stop. Your dog is fast asleep, but the eyes look a little open. It can feel odd. Most of the time, it is a normal part of how dogs rest. Here is what you may be seeing, and when it is worth a call to your veterinarian.

Can dogs sleep with their eyes open?

Yes. Veterinary sources describe it as something many dogs do from time to time. A dog can look awake while being partly or fully asleep.

The eyes may be slightly open, or you may just see a thin line of white. Some dogs also look like they are staring. If you say their name, they often wake right up.

Why it can happen

Light sleep

At the start of a nap, a dog is often relaxed but not deeply out. PetMD notes that dogs in this stage can come back to alertness quickly if something stirs. Their eyes may stay a little open during that time.

An old instinct to stay aware

Wild animals benefit from keeping a bit of awareness while they rest. The same instinct may linger in our pets. It is one explanation vets give for half-open eyes, not a rule for every dog.

REM sleep

REM stands for rapid eye movement. It is the stage linked with dreaming. Dogs reach it too. The AKC explains that the eyes can move quickly under the lids, and the body may react. PetMD adds that eyes can be partly open during this stage, sometimes with small movements and sounds.

The third eyelid

Dogs have a third eyelid, called the nictitating membrane. It is a thin, see-through layer that rises from the inner corner of the eye. It can look pinkish or yellowish. When it shows during sleep, the eye can look open even when it is not.

Eye shape

PetMD notes that some breeds with prominent eyes, such as Pugs and Boston Terriers, may not be able to close their eyes fully. The condition is called lagophthalmos. If your dog has bulging eyes and always sleeps with them a bit open, it is worth mentioning at the next checkup.

Why dogs twitch in their sleep

If you also see paws paddling or little shakes, that is usually REM too. VCA Animal Hospitals explains that twitching often starts about 20 minutes after a dog falls asleep, which is when the first dream cycle usually begins.

Puppies and senior dogs tend to twitch more than middle-aged dogs. One theory from VCA is that the part of the brain that holds back muscle movement is still developing in young dogs, or is less effective in older ones.

Some numbers help here. The AKC reports that adult dogs spend roughly half of the day asleep, and that REM makes up around 10 percent of a dog's total sleep. Puppies can sleep up to 18 to 20 hours a day. That is a lot of time for small twitches and open eyes.

What you may notice, and what is usually fine

Eyes slightly open while the body is loose and relaxed.
Short, soft twitches, paddling paws or tiny barks.
A third eyelid showing for a moment.
Waking easily when you call your dog.

When to talk to your veterinarian

Your vet is the right person to ask whenever something seems off. Based on our sources, these are good reasons to call:

Red, irritated or swollen eyes, squinting, or unusual discharge (PetMD).
Trouble walking, loss of balance or confusion after waking (PetMD).
Falling asleep at odd moments, such as while eating or playing (PetMD).
Movements that are stiff and last a long time, with drooling, confusion or loss of bladder control (VCA).
A dog who cannot be woken easily during the movements (AKC).
A big change in sleep habits. The AKC notes that sleeping much more than usual can sometimes be linked to health conditions, so a vet visit is wise.

The AKC says dream movements are usually brief, under 30 seconds, and soft, while seizure movements tend to be stiffer and more intense. It also says any seizure deserves a call to your vet. Several seizures within 24 hours need urgent action. If a seizure goes on for 3 to 4 minutes, contact a vet right away.

A practical tip from both PetMD and the AKC: film what you see on your phone. A short video helps your vet a lot.

Helping your dog rest well

A quiet corner, a steady routine and a comfortable spot all make sleep easier. A cushioned bed with a removable cover is simple to keep fresh. You can browse our dog beds if your dog is due for a new spot.

Quick answers

Is it normal for my dog to sleep with eyes partly open?

It is often normal. Light sleep, REM sleep and a visible third eyelid are common reasons. Mention it to your vet if the eyes look red, sore or watery.

Why does my dog twitch while sleeping?

Twitching usually happens during REM sleep. It tends to be brief and relaxed, and your dog can be woken easily.

How can I tell dream twitching from a seizure?

Seizure movements tend to be stiff, stronger and harder to interrupt, sometimes with drooling or confusion afterward. If you are unsure, film it and call your vet.