How Much Do Puppies Sleep Each Day?

There are few things more exciting than welcoming home a new puppy and planning to spend every minute cuddling and playing. But they’re sleeping again. Again?! 

Yes, puppies do sleep a lot—typically 15 to 20 hours per day, and even up to 22 hours for newborn puppies. This is because puppies are born when there’s still plenty of development happening inside their tiny bodies. 

Learn more about how much puppies sleep based on their age and why. 

Why Do Puppies Sleep So Much? 

Not only are puppies cognitively developing as they encounter new surroundings and stimuli like scents & noises, but they’re developing physically, too. In fact, their nervous and digestive systems are not fully formed at birth which is why puppies sleep so much—all this growing can be quite tiring for a newborn! 

Puppies are also born without the ability to see or hear. This lasts for about two weeks during the neonatal period, a significant puppy developmental stage when lots of sleeping is common. Around 6 months old, puppies sleep anywhere from 14 to 16 hours—down from the 20+ hours that’s possible when they’re a newborn.   

When Do Puppies Sleep Through the Night? 

Age and how much puppies sleep throughout the day impact when puppies sleep through the night and for how long. Newborn or very young pups can typically sleep lots during the day and more at night. However, their small bladders mean they’ll need more frequent potty breaks during the night. Set a timer for every few hours to take them out for a quick potty break. Just be sure to avoid excitement or too much energy; your goal is to go back to bed! 

When puppies grow older, typically 3 to 4 months, they’ll grow accustomed to sleeping for longer stretches overnight. Their daily activities will increasingly affect their sleep schedule, too.  

Why Isn’t My Puppy Sleeping at Night? 

Puppy teething, noise, even loneliness are common reasons for a restless puppy. Not to mention, they’re still adjusting to their new home—particularly at night! 

If your puppy hasn’t been sleeping through the night, try the following to help them snooze:

• Establish a routine – Like you, your puppy has an internal clock that needs regulating. Aim to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day, including weekends.   
• Take one final potty break each day – Feeling relieved will help your dog feel comfortable to call it a day. 
• Tire them out – The more time your pup’s active during the day, the fewer opportunities there are to nap! Enjoying play sessions, providing puppy chew toys, and generally staying active will provide your pup the enrichment they need.
• Create a cozy environment – Whether it’s their own dog room, a crate, or bed, your pup’s space can affect their rest. Try dimming the lights, using their favorite blanket, or even playing calm music for dogs to create a relaxing mood.

🐶 Related: How to Calm Down a Puppy: 5 Quick Tips

• Practice patience – As with any training, stay the course! Consistency and patience will help you and your puppy sleep through the night. 

Time to Snooze!

Puppies do sleep a lot, so let them! Our young furry friends require a substantial amount of sleep as they grow.  

Curious to learn more about puppies? Check out these 10 adorable puppy facts!