What do dogs dream of? Chasing small critters, eating steak, and digging, of course!

Most dog owners have noticed that at various times during their sleep, some dogs may quiver, make leg twitches or may even growl or snap at some sleep-created phantom, giving the impression that they are dreaming about something.

Note: Pet dogs are related to coyotes, foxes, wolves and other wild canine creatures that dig dens to raise their pups. A den serves as protection from the elements and from predators.

Although your domesticated canine probably lives in great comfort -- with perhaps his own house and bed, and with no fear of being snatched up and eaten -- he may still desire to sleep in a denlike environment, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.


Digging at the bed is instinctual; it's what your dogs’ wild kin have done for ages to soften the ground.