Why Does My Dog Sleep on My Head?

You wake up in the middle of the night and feel something heavy and warm on your head. It’s not a pillow—it’s your dog. Sound familiar?

If your pup loves to snooze on or around your head, you’re not alone. Many dog owners experience this surprisingly common, and sometimes adorable, behaviour. But why do dogs do it? Let’s take a look at the reasons behind this funny habit, and when it’s perfectly fine—or a sign to set some boundaries.

1. It’s a Sign of Affection and Trust

Dogs are pack animals by nature. In the wild, pack members often sleep huddled together for warmth, protection, and comfort. When your dog curls up near your head, they’re not trying to make your pillow their territory—they’re showing you that you’re part of their pack.

Your head, in particular, is the area most associated with your scent. To your dog, that smell is safety and love wrapped up in one. Sleeping close to your head allows them to feel connected to you, even while you’re both dreaming.

2. They’re Seeking Warmth

Dogs are heat seekers. Your head and neck tend to give off more heat than other parts of your body, especially when you’re tucked under blankets. Smaller breeds or dogs with short coats—like Chihuahuas or Greyhounds—are especially prone to burrowing near your head because it’s the warmest spot in bed.

If this is the case, try giving your dog a cosy blanket or a heated pet bed at the foot of your bed. They’ll likely find it just as comforting—and you’ll reclaim your pillow.

3. Your Dog Is Protecting You

Some dogs take their role as “guardian” quite literally, even when they’re asleep. By positioning themselves close to your head, they’re in the best spot to alert you if something feels off.

This behaviour is particularly common in breeds with strong protective instincts, like German Shepherds or Rottweilers. It’s their way of saying, “Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered—even while we sleep.”

4. It’s About Comfort and Familiar Smells

Just like a child might sleep better with a favourite blanket, dogs find comfort in the familiar scent of their humans. Your pillow and hair carry your natural scent, which can help them feel calm and secure.

If your dog tends to get anxious or clingy—especially during storms, fireworks, or after a stressful day—snuggling near your head might simply be their way of finding peace.

5. Habit and Reinforcement

If your dog has slept near your head since they were a puppy, it may have just become a habit. Dogs love routines, and once a behaviour feels rewarding (warmth, closeness, comfort), they’ll keep doing it.

In their mind, it’s their spot now—and if you’ve never stopped them, they see no reason to change!

6. Could It Be a Sign of Anxiety or Insecurity?

Sometimes, a dog sleeping on your head is more about emotional reassurance than affection. Dogs that are newly adopted, have separation anxiety, or have recently experienced a big change (like moving house or losing a companion) may want to stay as close as possible.

They might also follow you from room to room, whine when left alone, or show other clingy behaviours. If that’s the case, gently encourage independence—gradually moving their sleeping spot away from your head to a comfortable dog bed nearby.

7. Is It Okay to Let Your Dog Sleep on Your Head?

It depends on you and your dog. If it’s not causing you discomfort or allergies, and your pup is clean, healthy, and calm, there’s no harm in sharing your pillow. However, if it disrupts your sleep or leads to neck pain (or if your dog snores like a freight train), it’s okay to set boundaries.

Train them to sleep near your feet or on a separate bed using positive reinforcement—like treats and praise when they settle in the right spot.

8. Sleeping on Your Head vs. Sleeping Sickness

If your dog suddenly starts sleeping only near your head or seems unusually sleepy throughout the day, it’s worth paying attention. Excessive drowsiness or sudden changes in sleep patterns can sometimes indicate sleeping sickness or other health concerns, such as thyroid imbalance, low blood sugar, or infection.

While rare, sleeping sickness (also called canine narcolepsy or lethargy disorder) may cause your dog to fall asleep unexpectedly, appear weak, or seem “out of it.”

If your dog’s behaviour feels off, consult a vet to rule out any medical causes. Otherwise, their head-snuggling habit is likely just love—not illness.

The Bottom Line

Your dog sleeping on your head might feel strange, but it’s usually nothing to worry about. Most of the time, it’s a sweet combination of affection, warmth, and habit. As long as you’re both comfortable and healthy, there’s no need to stop them.

However, if your furry friend’s sleep behaviour changes suddenly or seems excessive, a quick vet check will give you peace of mind.