Have you ever wondered why dogs become lazy and prefer sleeping for long hours?

Some might think it is not normal for their otherwise active pets to go into resting mode that too for extended periods.

The fact is your pet dog can doze off anywhere, whether they are on your bed, the couch, outside in the garden, etc.

Install MyStart Theme for Google Chrome

Though a dog loves a great nap or many naps during the day, they will be more than happy to get a good night’s sleep as well. So is it normal for dogs to sleep for longer hours? Let’s find out.

How much should a dog sleep on average?

If your pet dog is sleeping for more than 8 hours, that is pretty normal. However, the sleep pattern can vary from breed to breed. Your pet dog might be spending a big chunk of their lives sleeping and relaxing, but they are all active and playful when awake. So it seems only fair if your dog wants to recharge by napping for more than 8 hours every day.

How much sleep does a puppy need?

Don’t worry if your puppies are sleeping too much. They might take several tiny naps in a day. Their sleeping hours are crucial for their growth and development. On average, a pup might sleep for around 18 to 20 hours. In their growth stage, they sleep almost 5 to 7 hours more compared to adult dogs. However, the sleep pattern changes as they grow old, and the duration of their sleep reduces with time.

The sleeping pattern of an adult dog

An adult dog naps for 8 to 13.5 hours per day, depending on its breed. They tend to wake up early morning and are all hyped up. However, around noon you might notice your pet dog napping somewhere around the house. In fact, it is the power naps that keep the dogs recharged and energetic all day long.

How long does a senior dog nap for?

Once your pet dog is 5 years and above, it comes in the senior dog category. As they become older, dogs tend to sleep way more than usual. They can sleep or rest for almost 16 to 18 hours. It is but natural for a senior dog to sleep as they get tired pretty soon. Hence, when they grow old, dogs prefer sitting in a comfy corner and just relax.

Dog breeds and their sleeping patterns

Various dog breeds have different sleeping patterns. Some dog breeds are small in size, and some are big. While there are breeds that like to exercise, some just enjoy eating and lazing around.

• Some dog breeds that sleep for longer hours include Greyhound, Chow Chow, Bulldog, Pug, French Bulldog, Great Dane, and Basset Hound.
• A few breeds that sleep for lesser hours include the Australian Terrier and Pomeranian. Both breeds remain energetic throughout the day. Labrador Retrievers won’t nap as much as other dogs if they are kept occupied. However, when free, they tend to doze off anywhere.

Do dogs suffer from sleep disorders?

Dogs can have sleep disorders. For example, dog breeds like Doberman Pinschers and Labrador Retrievers can have narcolepsy. Suffering from this sleep disorder means that your dog might fall asleep even before finishing its meal. Moreover, dogs with this condition might experience drowsiness the entire day.

Apart from those, Brachycephalic breeds, like the Bulldog, can suffer from sleep apnea. This is a disorder in which irregular breathing and loud snoring cause them to wake up while sleeping. Such breeds develop sleep apnea because of the shape of their skulls. Due to their narrow upper airways, their breathing gets obstructed while sleeping.

Seeking medical advice

Taking care of your pet dog’s needs and regular visits to the vet ensures that your dog is healthy and in good shape. However, as they age, they require extra care as certain diseases, such as diabetes, kidney and heart diseases, might affect their health.

Make sure to seek medical advice as soon as possible if you find your furry friend walking at a very slow pace, acts all lethargic about exercises, and is not eating properly. Moreover, any changes in their sleep pattern might mean there is a problem.

There is nothing wrong if your pet dog is sleeping for longer hours. Keep in mind that every dog has different needs, and the sleeping pattern varies depending on the dog’s breed, size as well as health. Some dog breeds eat quite a lot when they age, while some don’t. This is exactly the case with their sleep cycle as well. However, ensure that you take your pet to the vet if you see any noticeable changes in them.

Install MyStart Theme for Google Chrome