NATURE FIRST · WELLBEING
How Much Sleep Does a Dog Need?
Adult dogs rest and sleep around 18 to 20 hours a day, puppies and seniors even more. Why so much rest is normal and how you support good sleep.
Many owners are surprised how much their dog sleeps. But that is completely normal. Unlike us, dogs spread their rest across the whole day and reach surprisingly high totals. What matters is not only deep sleep, but all the phases in which the dog dozes and lies relaxed.
How much is normal?
| Life stage | Rest and sleep per day | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy | up to 20 hours | Growth and learning cost a lot of energy, breaks are a must. |
| Adult dog | about 18 to 20 hours | Including dozing and quiet lying, not just deep sleep. |
| Senior | often more than 20 hours | Older dogs need more rest again, that is normal. |
Why so much sleep is needed
In sleep a dog processes its experiences, the brain sorts impressions and what it has learned. Rest also strengthens the immune system and gives the body time to recover. If a dog gets too little sleep, it quickly becomes irritable and wound up, much like an overtired child. Young dogs in particular ramp up when overtired instead of becoming calmer.
How to support good sleep
Rest needs the right setting
- Offer a fixed, quiet sleeping spot a little away from the bustle
- Create a retreat where the dog may lie undisturbed
- Turn down stimulation in the evening, no wild play right before rest
- Fixed routines give security and help with falling asleep
- Do not entertain the dog constantly, a little boredom is allowed
When to look more closely
A lot of sleep is healthy. But if the sleep pattern changes suddenly and clearly, for example noticeably more sleep, night-time restlessness, panting or wandering around, there may be a health reason behind it. That belongs at the vet, as does lasting sleeplessness.
Practical helpers
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Orthopaedic dog bed
Supports the joints and provides restful sleep, especially for larger and older dogs.
- Shape-retaining foam
- Washable cover
- Dog lies stretched out
Cave or cuddle bed
A bed with a raised rim or cave gives shy dogs security to snuggle into.
- Soft padding
- Washable
- Right size
Cuddle blanket
Gives security at the sleeping spot and protects the upholstery, ideal for basket and sofa.
- Soft and washable
- Robust
- Several sizes
Frequently asked questions
How many hours does a dog sleep a day?
An adult dog reaches about 18 to 20 hours of rest and sleep, spread across the day. Puppies and seniors need even more.
Does my dog sleep too much?
A lot of sleep is normal. It only becomes notable if the behaviour suddenly changes a lot or other complaints appear, then a vet visit is worthwhile.
Where should my dog sleep?
In a fixed, quiet spot a little away from the bustle, where it feels safe and can lie undisturbed.
Why does my puppy ramp up in the evening instead of getting tired?
Often it is overtired. Young dogs become hectic rather than calm when they get too little sleep. Fixed rest breaks across the day help here.