Strategic Fake Sleeping

You think I’m asleep.
I’m not.
I’m choosing peace.

SESSION NOTE

Avoidance behavior disguised as rest.

THE SESSION

You start talking… and suddenly I’m out cold.
Deep sleep. Zero response. Academy-level performance.

From your side, it’s “aww, they’re so relaxed.”
From mine, it’s “if I make eye contact, this turns into something I don’t have energy for.”

Dogs don’t just rest because they’re tired.
Sometimes we check out because the energy around us feels… like too much.

Long conversations, heightened emotion, repeating commands, or even your tone shifting—
it can feel like pressure.

So instead of engaging, I opt out.
Not rebellion. Not disrespect. Just a quiet “no thank you.”

And here’s where it gets interesting—
if every time I’m alert, something is expected of me, I learn that being “available” leads to work.

So I get really good at… not being available.

Eyes closed. Breathing slow.
You call my name? Nothing.
Oscar-worthy.

Underneath it, I’m not lazy.
I’m protecting my calm.

WHAT YOUR DOG IS REALLY SAYING

“If I stay still and quiet, maybe I won’t get pulled into something overwhelming.”

COZYMD RATING

Stress Level: 5/10

COZYMD TREATMENT PLAN

Create moments where your dog can be awake without expectation. Sit near them without asking for anything. Let your presence feel neutral, not demanding. When you do engage, keep it simple and clear. A calm environment paired with something soothing like a soft bed or a gentle chew can help your dog feel safe staying “on” without needing to shut down.

CLOSING

Sometimes “sleep” isn’t rest… it’s a polite way of saying no.