Pit Bull advocate Cole Reeves, who cares for more than 100 rescued Pit Bulls, has shared an explanation for why dogs circle before lying down. According to Reeves, the habit goes back to when dogs and their wild ancestors rested outdoors. Turning in circles helped them flatten grass and other vegetation to make a more comfortable bed.
Reeves also says circling may let dogs inspect the spot. Moving through the grass could disturb anything hidden beneath it. He adds that dogs may use the turns to sniff the air and notice changes in their surroundings.
Reeves suggests that many dogs sleep with their backs toward their humans because they feel secure with the people beside them. He also interprets this position as a sign that dogs are looking out for their families. The report notes that sleeping direction alone cannot establish that a dog is deliberately protecting someone, and dogs may face away for reasons such as comfort, room arrangement, or temperature.
The article also discusses curling into a tight ball. VCA Animal Hospitals explains that curling can help dogs conserve body heat in cold conditions, and this position is commonly called the donut position. The report notes that not every dog that circles or curls up is responding to a perce