Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much (And What’s Normal)?
From sleeping in late to taking afternoon naps, it’s not unusual for our furry friends to doze off throughout the day. So, why do dogs sleep so much? And is it possible for them to get too much rest? Find out what your pup’s sleep schedule might say about their wellness and how you can help them get some quality shuteye!
How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?
How much sleep a dog needs depends on a few factors, but healthy adult canines should generally sleep about 12 hours daily. Puppies need even more sleep, requiring 15 to 20 hours per day and upwards of 22 hours as newborns. Senior dogs often sleep 16 hours or more daily, and larger breeds tend to spend more time resting than smaller breeds.
5 Reasons Why Dogs Sleep So Much
No matter your dog’s age or breed, they’re probably getting more sleepy time than you. The following factors can influence why dogs sleep so much—and may help you understand why your furry friend might get more or less rest than normal!
#1: Unique Sleeping Patterns
While dogs sleep more overall than humans, the quality of their sleep isn’t quite the same. They only spend about 10% of their sleep in Rapid Eye Movement (REM), according to Forbes. In comparison, roughly 25% of human sleep is in REM. This important rest stage is where the most life-like dog dreams occur, and dogs rest lightly throughout the day to make up for that crucial sleep.
#2: Nutritional Needs
Dogs who don’t get enough nutrients in their diet might be especially tired. Amino acids, carbohydrates, healthy fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals all contribute to healthy sleep, so give your dog a well-balanced diet to help ensure they get these important nutrients. It’s also important to keep their water bowl filled during the day, as dehydration can also affect how much dogs sleep.
#3: Boredom
Have you ever found yourself particularly tired on a lazy Sunday? Boredom works the same way in dogs, as furry friends who are by themselves or not active may sleep the day away. If your dog spends time home alone, hiring a dog walker or pet sitter can keep them active throughout the day. When you get home, enrich their mind with a fun dog treat toy! These toys combine treat time and chew time, keeping your pup happy and occupied.
🐶 Related: How to Recognize and Prevent Dog Boredom
#4: Stress
While you may associate overactivity with fear and anxiety, underactivity is also a common sign of dog stress. If your pooch hides in an unusual spot (such as under the couch), it may indicate they’re feeling stressed. Other signs of stress include anxious body language, destructive behavior, irregular appetite, scratching, and licking. Showing your dog positive attention and letting them relax with a chew toy can help them cope with these negative feelings.
#5: Health Conditions
If your dog consistently oversleeps, they may be dealing with a health issue. Diabetes, depression, loss of hearing, and hypothyroidism (a disorder in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone) can lead to excessive sleeping. Other signs your dog may have a medical condition include:
- Coughing
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Increased thirst and urination
- Loss of interest in activities
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Wheezing
Dogs can also be susceptible to many of the same sleep disorders that affect humans, such as insomnia, narcolepsy, and sleep apnea. Contact your veterinarian for treatment if you suspect your dog has a medical condition.
How to Help Your Dog Get Better Sleep
Just like us, dogs need quality sleep to feel their best—and you can help! Follow these guidelines to keep your furry friend feeling cozy.
📋 Establish a routine: Keeping your dog on a schedule will help their body know when it’s time for bed. Take them out to go potty, enjoy some light playtime together, and send them to bed at the same time each night. Feel free to reward them with a tasty dog treat for going to their sleep spot!
🛏️ Provide a comfortable place to sleep: Give your dog a warm, comfy sleeping space away from areas with heavy foot traffic or loud noises. If you have enough free space, you can even consider a dedicated dog room to give them their own special sanctuary.
💧 Take away their water bowl at night: Dogs who drink right before bedtime or in the middle of the night are more likely to need an overnight potty break. While it’s okay to remove a healthy dog’s water bowl before bed, canines with health conditions may need access to water throughout the night. Contact your vet for advice if your dog has any medical concerns.
⏰ Keep yourself on a sleep schedule: Your lifestyle influences how much your dog sleeps! If you stick to a schedule, you’ll minimize disturbances throughout the night and encourage your dog to follow their own bedtime routine.
Rest Assured
Dogs need plenty of sleep, and there’s much you can do to help them catch some Zs. Keeping their mind and body active throughout the day and putting them to bed at the same time each evening will give them the rest they crave.
Routines are an important part of your furry friend’s wellbeing. Check out these articles for more advice on promoting a happy, healthy lifestyle for your pooch:
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