Have you ever looked at your dog sleeping and wondered how they could possibly be comfortable in that position?

One minute they're curled into a tiny ball. The next, they're stretched across the entire bed with their legs sticking out in every direction.

Dogs have individual sleeping habits, and paying attention to them can actually help you understand what type of sleeping space they prefer.

The curled-up sleeper

Some dogs love curling themselves into a tight ball when they sleep.

This position can help them feel cosy and protected, particularly when they're resting.

Dogs that regularly curl up may enjoy a bed with raised edges or a shape that allows them to settle into one comfortable area.

A Wagit Round Bed with Removable Cover can be a suitable style to consider for dogs that enjoy curling up.

The stretcher

Other dogs seem determined to occupy as much space as physically possible.

If your dog regularly sleeps completely stretched out, they may prefer an open sleeping surface with plenty of room.

A mattress-style bed such as the Wagit Mattress can provide a spacious area for dogs that like to stretch out.

The burrower

Some dogs love getting underneath blankets or bedding.

This can be particularly common in dogs that enjoy cosy, enclosed sleeping environments.

Adding a soft blanket to their bed can give them something they can snuggle against or partially cover themselves with.

The Snugs Sherpa Dog Blanket or Fleece Dog Blanket can be useful additions to a dog's sleeping area.

The sprawler

Then there are the dogs who somehow manage to take up an entire piece of furniture.

These dogs often prefer plenty of room to move around while sleeping.

A larger square or mattress-style bed may be more appropriate than a compact bed that restricts movement.

Your dog's sleeping position can change

Don't assume your dog will always prefer one sleeping position.

Dogs may change position depending on temperature, how tired they are, where they are sleeping and how they feel at that particular moment.

What's important is giving them enough space and a comfortable environment where they can settle naturally.

Watch for changes

Sleeping habits can also change as dogs get older.

If your dog suddenly struggles to settle, repeatedly changes position, has difficulty getting comfortable or shows signs of pain, it is worth discussing the change with your veterinarian.

A change in sleeping behaviour can sometimes indicate that something is bothering them.

Let your dog choose their comfort zone

Your dog can't tell you exactly which bed they want.

But their behaviour gives you plenty of clues.

Watch where they sleep, whether they curl up or stretch out, whether they like blankets and whether they prefer soft or more open surfaces.

Then use those observations when choosing their bedding.

Explore PETSA's range of dog beds and blankets on Shopstar.