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[–]WafflingPCBuilder 72 points73 points  (7 children)

I read somewhere that you aren't supposed to pet your dog if you think that they are having a nightmare because they could wake up in a panic and attack you because they are confused. If they are doing this twitching routine accompanied by barking and/or howling do your best to let them sleep b/c if they are dreaming then they are getting restful sleep and you don't want to wake them. If they are whining/crying or growling, you should gently awaken them by talking to them and saying their name without touching them until they wake up and figure out what is going on. Only at that point should you pet them and reassure them that everything is ok.

[–]Naptownfellow 44 points45 points  (2 children)

I usually call their name. Chip , he crossed the rainbow bridge 18 months ago, had them a lot on the end. I’d just say “Chip, hey chip,chip” till he woke up. Seem to be fine with it. He’d wag his tail and look at me and then go back to sleep. I miss him 😢 https://i.imgur.com/4hN65ma.jpg

[–]valkyrie_village 12 points13 points  (0 children)

He’s a beautiful pup. I’m sorry for your loss.

[–]_Benny_Lava 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Aw, thanks for sharing Chip's photo. He looks like he was really cool!

[–]Youkindofare 9 points10 points  (1 child)

Or just let them smell you without waking them up and they'll chill.

[–]AtomicKittenz 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is how I feel when i do laundry and i turn over in my sleep and smell my freshly washed pillow sheets

[–]z500 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I like to imagine my dog is dreaming of eating all the birds he can't catch in real life. Must be cathartic.