15 Peculiar Facts About Dogs That You Probably Didn't Know

10. Dogs Curl Up in Sleep to Protect Their Vital Organs

When dogs curl up to sleep, it’s an instinctive behavior on their part. By tucking themselves into a compact, curled position, they’re protecting their most vulnerable parts—like their stomachs—from potential predators. This posture finds its way back to their wild ancestors, who would seek safety by minimizing their exposure and making themselves less of a target while resting. Even though domesticated dogs no longer face the same dangers, this behavior remains deeply ingrained in their sleeping habits—offering them a sense of security and comfort as they sleep.