How Much time Dogs Sleep? What’s Normal And What’s Not

How Much Do Dogs Sleep – Most dogs sleep 12 – 14 hours per day. Large dog breeds can sleep up to 18 hours a day.Dogs And Sleep
Your furry friend also goes through different stages of sleep and REM sleep, much like humans and other mammals. One big difference is, humans sleep in long stretches at nights—they should, anyway! Dogs, on the other hand, sleep long hours in total, but they sleep in little increments. These may be short bursts of sleep but they are a deep sleep. A dog’s heart rate drops and the breathing slows down. In as little as 10 minutes, they will go into REM sleep and will even start to dream. If you look closely, you will see their eyes rolling around under their eyelids, hence the name Rapid Eye Movement. It’s a sign of healthy brain activity. The may start to twitch and squirm, probably dreaming of playing fetch with you. Because dogs are protectors, their instincts and senses are always on high alert, even when they are sleeping. They will wake up very easily. The slightest sound and the littlest disturbance will rouse them.

Is Your Dog Sleeping Too Much? When To Worry

Dogs sleep a lot so this in itself is not a cause for concern. However, if you notice changes in your dog’s regular sleep pattern or sleep habits, it definitely wouldn’t hurt to pay closer attention. If you observe your dog to be lethargic or unable to eat, along with the changes in sleeping patterns or excessive sleeping, there could be something there. Take your dog to a vet right away. Lethargy, which some pet owners might confuse with excessive sleepiness, is a common symptom of many doggie diseases and ailments. This includes the parvovirus, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and even depression. Yes, dogs can suffer from depression too.

Much like humans, major life changes and disruptions will also affect a dog’s sleeping patterns. Death of a beloved human or a canine friend, a new environment, recovery from surgery, jealousy from a new member of the family, and many other things can result in a sleep disturbance in your dog. Their sleeping habits should return to normal eventually.

Improve Your Dog’s Sleep

As with humans, quality of sleep matters as well, not just the number of hours spent sleeping. To make sure your dog sleeps comfortably and efficiently, give him enough exercise every day to help him expend excess energy. This makes it easier for them to fall asleep. Make sure your dog is eating well and sufficiently. Get enough nutrition in his diet and do not over or under feed him. Don’t neglect his regular visits to the vet to make sure he is healthy and happy. Most importantly, make sure your dog has a quiet and comfortable place to retire. You might want to give him his own doggy bed. Some owners prefer to co-sleep with their dogs. Others keep their pets on kennels and cages at nights.

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