How Many Hours a Day Do Dogs Sleep?
Most dog lovers would be happy to live their lives like their four-legged friends. In the US, 57% of households have at least one pet.
But do you know how long do dogs sleep? What does the average dog do with their time?
“They eat, play, and cuddle with us. What else do they need?” you might think.
Well, unfortunately, life as a dog isn’t all a dog would wish for.
If you ever asked yourself the question, “How many hours a day do dogs sleep?” then you’re in the perfect place to get the answer as you continue reading.
How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?
Dogs sleep an average of 12 to 14 hours a day, although some may sleep as much as 20 hours. Smaller dogs generally sleep more than larger dogs.
Puppies and young dogs need more sleep than adult dogs. Senior dogs also tend to sleep more than middle-aged dogs.
How Do Dogs Sleep?
Dogs usually sleep for short periods throughout the day and night. Most dogs will have at least one long nap during the day. Dogs sleep more than people do, but they still need to be active to stay healthy.
Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much?
Dogs sleep more than humans do. They have shorter attention spans, and they process information differently than we do.
Dogs’ sleeping patterns are different. Dogs have two sleep cycles, REM and non-REM. Humans have three.
During REM sleep, dogs’ brains are active, and they may dream. During non-REM sleep, their brains are less active, and they are in a deep sleep.
The main reason dogs sleep so much is that they need more time to process information. They take in so much information during the day that they need to sleep more to sort it all out.
What are the Common Causes of Sleep Loss in Dogs?
While the amount of sleep that a dog need varies depending on its age, breed, and health, the average dog sleeps for 12-14 hours a day. But, some common causes of sleep loss in dogs include stress, anxiety, arthritis pain, and loud noises.
If your dog is having difficulty sleeping, it is important to talk to your veterinarian to rule out any medical causes and to find the best way to help your dog get the rest they need.
How Can You Help Your Dog Sleep Better?
You can help your dog sleep better by making sure he has a comfortable place to sleep, such as giving your dog the best dog beds or crates. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and avoiding loud noises or other disruptions during nap time can also help your dog sleep better.
You should also avoid giving your dog coffee, energy drinks, or other stimulants, as these can keep him awake and make it difficult to fall asleep.
Be Informed How Many Hours a Day Do Dogs Sleep
One way to help ensure your dog is getting enough sleep is to know how many hours a day do dogs sleep. This is important to ensure your dog is healthy and happy.
On average, dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day. But, this can vary depending on the breed, age, and health of the dog. If you have any concerns about your dog’s sleep habits, talk to your vet.
Also, be sure to check out our pet website blog for more articles on pet care and development.
