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My puppy breathes loudly and moves in sleep. Is she dreaming or ill?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 3 months and 21 days old

I know that my puppy Shiva has been abandoned and then recovered Parvo and car crash in her life of 3 months. When she is sleeping, she has episodes of loud breathing like she is smelling something and her paws, ears and eyes are moving, like slightly shaking. I wonder if she's dreaming or having nightmares or is there a more serious issue going on. These episodes last for about 2 or 3 minutes.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 22nd, 2018

Hello. It is very common for puppies to have deep, vivid dreams. There can be slight movements, strong paddling, small yips to loud yelps. It is all to develop a strong brain & it is all perfectly normal. She will be fine. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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